Frequently Asked Questions
Got Questions? See below for answers.
We’re here to help!
We’ve compiled answers to some of our most common questions on this page.
If you can’t find the answer, feel free to contact us.
What kind of training do your pilots receive?
Our licensed and authorized pilots undergo extensive training in both flying drones and capturing data to ensure accurate and reliable results.
Can you map an area in 3D?
What kind of equipment do you use?
How do you ensure data accuracy?
Can you capture thermal images?
What industries do you work with?
How quickly can you deliver data?
Can you work in remote or difficult-to-access areas?
Can you create customized solutions for specific needs?
What makes your LIDAR systems unique?
Access to the latest technologies and
professional pilots
Realistic costs of running a drone.
Here’s an estimate of the average total cost of hiring one drone and one pilot for a small government for one year full-time, assuming a drone replacement time frame of every 2 months, a drone price of $30,000, a yearly wage for the drone pilot of $150,000, and additional costs such as licensing, training courses, HR costs, clothing, equipment, and time spent registering drones and hiring an ReOC to organize flights:
Drone and Pilot Costs: With a drone price of $30,000, the cost of purchasing 6 drones for the year would be $180,000. The yearly wage of $150,000 for the drone pilot remains the same. Therefore, the total cost of hiring one drone and one pilot for a small government for one year full-time is $330,000.
Car Costs: Assuming a mid-sized SUV is required for the job and travel to different locations is necessary, the average cost for leasing or purchasing, fuel, and maintenance can range from $12,000 to $18,000 per year.
Drone Maintenance and Replacement: With a drone replacement time frame of every 2 months, the cost of maintenance can be lower, ranging from $500 to $2,500 per year. However, the cost of replacing the drone more frequently increases the average cost of replacing a drone to around $75,000 per year.
Licensing and Training Costs: The cost of licensing and training courses for the drone pilot can range from $5,000 to $10,000 per year.
HR Costs: The cost of HR management for the drone pilot can range from $10,000 to $20,000 per year.
Clothing and Equipment Costs: The cost of purchasing and maintaining clothing and equipment for the drone pilot can range from $2,000 to $5,000 per year.
Registration and Flight Organization Costs: The cost of registering drones and hiring an ReOC (Remote Operator Certificate) to organize flights can range from $3,000 to $10,000 per year.
Site analysis for construction planning
and progress tracking
Some additional we didn’t mention.
Insurance Costs
Additional insurance costs can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars per year.
Data Storage Costs
The cost of storing and managing data can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars per year.
Communication Costs
The cost of maintaining communication equipment and services can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars per year.
Safety and Compliance Costs
The cost of complying with safety regulations and obtaining necessary permits can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars per year.
Backup and Redundancy Costs
Additional insurance costs can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars per year.
Remote Viewing and Monitoring Costs
The cost of remote viewing and monitoring software and equipment can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars per year.
Emergency and Rescue Response Costs
The cost of emergency and rescue response services can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars per year.
Cybersecurity and IT Costs
The cost of maintaining cybersecurity and IT systems can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars per year.
Environmental Factors
The cost of protecting the drone and equipment from harsh environmental conditions can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars per year.
Unexpected Expenses
Unforeseen expenses can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars per year.
The total cost of hiring one drone and one pilot for a small government for one year full-time, including car costs, drone maintenance and replacement, licensing and training costs, HR costs, etc, could range from $447,000 to $518,000 per year. However, it’s important to note that the actual cost may vary based on the specific requirements, micro and macro environmental influences also.
Why Vertical Drones?
Utilizing drone technology can be overwhelming, especially for local governments with limited resources. That’s why at Vertical Drones, we strive to be more than just a service provider…
Licensing and training requirements
Requirements can be challenging, that's why we handle it all for you. Our pilots are qualified and up to date with all regulations...
Drone Footage
We sell drone footage for multiple applications and can provide licensing on request.
Lost your drone?
We provide a buy & return policy for found drones.