On the Rise: IBD (Inspection By Drone)

Recently, the news has reported drones that have come too close to commercial aircraft, landed just behind a skier in World Cup competition, and exhibited other deliberate or accidental hazards of unattended flight. This item looks at applications that promise more positive results. One company has enlisted their aid in inspecting aircraft after a lightning strike. The drones collect photographs and pertinent data, then transmit them wirelessly to a base station for forwarding to the aircraft manufacturer for analysis. The effort reduces inspection and redeployment from several hours to a mere half-hour, an enormous cost savings. Supporters' biggest challenge? Maintaining a positive image of drone deployment with security authorities and the general public.

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