The landscape of aerial surveying is becoming increasingly complex, presenting challenges both for seasoned professionals and newcomers to the field. Recent regulations have tightened restrictions on operational altitudes, while the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into surveying processes has gained significant momentum. Keeping abreast of the latest technologies while ensuring compliance with mounting regulations can feel overwhelming.
In a recent webinar titled Navigating the Future of Drone Surveying: Tech Stack, AI, and Regulatory Changes, experts discussed the intricacies of contemporary surveying practices. The panel included Rob Knochenhauer, director of regulatory affairs at Censys Technologies, and Edwin Sanchez, CEO of VOTIX, with moderation by Erin Sewall, a content specialist at CUAV News.
A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the necessity of having a robust operational framework before introducing AI tools to automate workflows. The panelists emphasized the importance of ensuring that data workflows are not only efficient but also self-sufficient. Key components like automated uploads, image quality checks, processing triggers, and structured data storage must function seamlessly to ensure AI models receive clean, timely data capable of generating reliable insights.
“Many of the AI technologies you see out there will rely strongly on the data that you have and how structured that data is, and how the workflow manages that data from one point to the other,” said Sanchez. He added that inadequate preparation could lead to costly investments in AI technology that ultimately fails to deliver accurate results.
As the discussion shifted to the adoption of new technologies, the panelists advocated for a layered approach in constructing an effective tech stack. They identified three critical layers: data acquisition, data processing and management, and operational intelligence. Sanchez advised beginning with a clear understanding of the data acquisition layer, focusing on the specific drones and sensors, and establishing workflows for consistent data capture.
The second layer, centered on data processing and management, requires operators to evaluate their needs for storing, retrieving, and distributing data. “I look at how I need to store, retrieve, and distribute data. How do I organize it or eventually safeguard it?” Sanchez noted, pointing out that these considerations are essential for selecting appropriate technology.
The final layer focuses on leveraging processed data for informed decision-making. “Asking yourself ‘How do I run AI analysis on top of that?’ or ‘How do I present information in a way that can help decision makers make better decisions in the process?’ will help define what technology is worth it,” Sanchez explained. This tri-layer approach serves as a foundational toolkit for organizations aiming to integrate technologies effectively.
One of the significant advancements in drone operations is flying beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS), which allows for extensive data collection but introduces safety concerns and regulatory hurdles. Panelists stressed the importance of formulating a clear operational rationale and establishing a robust safety case that addresses both air and ground risks before proceeding.
Knochenhauer highlighted the need for thorough risk identification, stating, “You need to go through the exercise of identifying what all the risks are in the areas that you want to fly beyond visual line of sight.” Understanding other aircraft operating nearby and assessing the risks associated with various terrains are crucial elements of this process. For many surveying operations, flights may frequently traverse unpopulated areas, yet crossing public roads poses unique challenges.
“Operators must ask themselves how they are satisfying the added risk of exposure and the potential of your drone crashing onto a roadway and causing an additional hazard,” Knochenhauer cautioned.
Compliance with evolving technology regulations is also a pressing concern for the industry. The panelists offered pragmatic advice for selecting compliant technologies that can adapt to future changes. Regulatory shifts, including the FCC covered list and upcoming Part 108 rules, are steering the sector toward prioritizing system-level reliability and integration-friendly solutions.
“Stay away from those technologies that are single branded in the fullest stack because that’s going to lock you in and you will end up missing the opportunities of bringing new tech into your workflow,” Sanchez warned. He stressed the importance of selecting technologies that allow for flexibility and integration with various systems.
Knochenhauer also pointed out the often-overlooked resource available to operators: the FAA’s Waiver Safety Explanation Guidelines. “If you type those four words you’ll find it pretty quickly,” he noted, emphasizing that these guidelines contain the precise questions FAA evaluators will consider during applications. A common mistake is assuming evaluators share the operator’s operational knowledge, which can lead to oversights in safety explanations.
In constructing waiver applications, panelists advised erring on the side of over-explanation rather than assuming anything is self-evident. “Those common-sense things that seem obvious to you are basically not obvious to the person evaluating your safety case,” Knochenhauer explained, underscoring the importance of clarity.
This webinar highlighted only a few facets of a rich conversation about the current state of drone surveying. For those interested, the complete session is available for free registration, providing valuable insights for navigating the evolving landscape of aerial surveying technologies.
See also
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US AI Developments in 2025 Set Stage for 2026 Compliance Challenges and Strategies
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