What are the main steps when contracting/organizing drone data acquisition?

  • Updated

When ordering a drone pilot for a mapping flight or organizing the flights yourself, there are several key elements to consider to ensure a successful and compliant operation:

  1. Qualifications and Certifications:
    • Ensure the pilot holds a valid Remote Pilot Certificate. This certification demonstrates their understanding of regulations, operating requirements, and procedures for safely flying drones
    • Check if the pilot has specialized certifications or training in drone mapping, 3D modeling, or thermal imaging
  2. Experience:
    • Look for a pilot with experience in mapping flights. Ask for examples of previous work or references from past clients.
  3. Equipment:
    • Confirm that the pilot uses high-quality drones equipped with the necessary sensors and cameras for mapping. Here you can find more information on selecting the equipment for your MAPEO products.
    • Ensure the drone has sufficient flight time and range to cover the mapping area without frequent interruptions.
    • Ensure the pilot know how to configure the drones and sensor, including calibration of multispectral sensors: 
    • Ensure that next to the drone equipment, the pilot can also deliver services like placement and measurement of Ground Control Points: 
  4. Regulations and Compliance:
    • Make sure the pilot is aware of and complies with local airspace regulations and restrictions. More inforamation on the regulations for Belgium and  Europe
    • Verify that they have the necessary permissions or waivers for flying in restricted areas if applicable.
  5. Insurance:
    • Check if the pilot has liability insurance to cover any potential damages or accidents during the flight
    • Consider additional hull insurance to cover the drone itself in case of damage
  6. Safety Procedures:
    • Ensure the pilot follows pre-flight and post-flight checklists to maintain safety and reliability.
    • Confirm they have a plan for emergency procedures in case of unexpected issues during the flight
  7. Communication & Data Handling:
    • Discuss how the pilot will collect, process, and deliver the mapping data.
    • Use the export functionality in the Order tab of MAPEO to communicate the location, contact information, flying dates and drone mission specifications to the pilot
    • For MAPEO, they need to install the MAPEO Field software and perform a quick data quality check in the field, right after the drone flight -
    • Verify their ability to provide the data in the required formats and resolutions.

By considering these elements, you can ensure that your mapping flight is conducted safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all relevant regulations.