Drone Survey (UAV Mapping and Aerial Survey)

A drone survey or UAV survey uses aerial platforms to collect high-resolution data for mapping, inspection and analysis. It is used across construction, mining, environmental and infrastructure projects, and can also carry geophysical sensors for magnetic or electromagnetic data acquisition as part of a broader site investigation program.

A UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) survey is an aerial surveying method that uses a remotely piloted or autonomous aircraft equipped with advanced sensors to capture high-resolution spatial data. The data is processed into geospatial outputs such as orthomosaics, elevation models and 3D datasets, supporting site mapping, inspection and monitoring across a wide range of projects.

A LiDAR drone survey uses a UAV equipped with laser scanning technology to collect high-accuracy elevation data across a site. Unlike photogrammetry, LiDAR can often penetrate gaps in vegetation to produce more reliable terrain models than photogrammetry, and can capture detailed ground models over complex terrain, making it well suited to engineering, environmental and geophysical investigations where accurate surface modelling is required.

A UAV survey captures data rapidly over large areas using drone mapping, while traditional survey methods are typically ground-based. Drone survey improves efficiency, coverage and safety, particularly in difficult or hazardous terrain, and enables geophysical sensor deployment where ground access is impractical.

Drone mapping produces outputs including orthomosaics, 3D models, contours and digital surface models. Where geophysical sensors are deployed, processed magnetic or conductivity datasets are also delivered, along with integrated 3D models suitable for interpretation in platforms such as Oasis Montaj and Leapfrog.

Accuracy depends on ground control, equipment and processing methods. When properly executed, UAV mapping can achieve high levels of positional accuracy suitable for engineering, mapping and geophysical integration applications.

We require site location, extent, access constraints, survey objectives and any control or regulatory requirements. For geophysical drone surveys, target depth, sensor selection and flight line spacing are also considered during program design.

Most drone survey projects can be completed within a few hours depending on site size and complexity, with data processing completed shortly after. Geophysical drone surveys follow a similar schedule, with additional time allocated for data processing and interpretation.