Drone-based surveying is in the midst of a significant transition as new capabilities expand what’s possible, evolving standards re-shape how work gets done, and the operational realities on the ground fail to match the headlines. This session takes a broad look at where the industry stands today and where it’s heading. Presentations will examine how BVLOS will reshape survey operations, the expanding role of bathymetric data collection, and why standards matter more than ever as the profession matures. A field case study closes the session by putting those themes in context, showing what modern drone surveying actually looks like when capability, compliance, and operational discipline come together. For surveying professionals at any stage of drone adoption, this session offers both a forward-looking perspective and practical takeaways rooted in real project experience.
The following presentations will be shared in this session:
Relaunching Under Part 108: What Aerial Mapping Companies Must Do Now
Presented by Juan Plaza, Plaza Aerospace Corp.
With the emphasis around the world on Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations, there will be a radical shift from pilot-in-command (PIC) responsibility from the physical operator of the drone to the company which employs them. In other words, from personal to corporate accountability. In the past, land surveying and photogrammetry companies have been able to get away with buying a drone and implementing a few safety systems to launch their uncrewed aerial mapping services. With Part 108 the responsibility is now transferred to the corporation and these companies will have to revise their Safety Management Systems (SMS), their insurance policies and their potential legal liabilities to operate beyond the visual range of the operator. This presentation will examine in detail the changes that land surveying/aerial photogrammetry companies will have to embark on to re-launch their services in the Part 108 future.
Innovation in Bathymetric Surveys: Up and Out of the Water
Presented by Steve Pruitt, Patriot Environmental
Many bathymetric survey workflows are limited by inconsistent data collection, inefficient processing cycles, and unnecessary safety exposure in challenging field environments. Patriot Field Technologies has developed a field-ready approach that integrates tethered drone sonar deployment with streamlined data workflows to deliver faster, safer, and more consistent survey results.
This session will explore how Patriot transitioned from legacy bathymetric methods to a technology-forward model that improves reliability and repeatability across frac ponds, mine ponds, industrial water storage sites, and other complex water applications.
Session participants will gain practical insight into real-world field execution, operational constraints, and the performance advantages of integrating sonar and drone-enabled deployment strategies.
Measuring Photogrammetry and Lidar Accuracy Using ASPRS Mapping Standards
Presented by Kurt Aper, Atwell
Advancements in technologies like photogrammetry and lidar have enabled surveyors to perform mapping functions traditionally reserved for mapping professionals, however, many surveyors lack awareness of recognized mapping standards needed to properly test, quantify, and report data accuracy. Traditional surveying standards do not address these modern technologies, making industry guidelines essential. The American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS) Positional Accuracy Standards provide a widely accepted framework. Equipped with basic knowledge, surveyors can apply these standards to improve reliability, ensure quality, and confidently deliver accurate mapping results in today’s evolving geospatial landscape.
