In this episode of Your Drone Questions. Answered, host Chris Breedlove sits down with Matt Nanney from AECOM to explore real-world examples of complex drone operations and how to effectively manage their unique challenges.

Matt shares valuable insights from his 16+ years of experience, covering a wide range of advanced drone missions—from post-hurricane damage assessments and rare species habitat mapping to large-scale corridor projects and BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) operations. Learn how his team tackles regulatory hurdles, coordinates with multiple agencies, and overcomes obstacles in tough environments like dense forests, disaster zones, and nighttime conditions.

Whether you're interested in environmental surveys, infrastructure inspections, or long-range mapping missions, this episode is packed with practical advice on planning, safety, and creative problem-solving in complex drone workflows.

👉 Have a drone question you want answered? Submit it at YDQA.io or email chris@dronelaunchacademy.com.

In this episode of Your Drone Questions. Answered, Chris from Drone Launch Academy breaks down the key PC specifications you should consider for handling data-intensive photogrammetry and LiDAR processing tasks.

Whether you’re using software like Pix4D, DJI Terra, Trimble Business Center, or LP360, this video highlights the general hardware requirements most of these programs share—including:
RAM recommendations (32GB minimum, 64GB+ ideal for heavy workloads)
CPU considerations (newer Intel i7/i9 or equivalent)
GPU guidance (NVIDIA preferred for many platforms, but not always required)
Desktop vs. laptop performance
Windows vs. macOS compatibility
When cloud processing might be a better choice

Chris also explains why chasing specs can sometimes lead to overspending—and what actually matters when you're setting up or upgrading your workstation.
Topics covered:
Minimum vs. ideal system requirements
Common pitfalls in hardware selection
Cloud processing options like DroneDeploy and Pix4D Cloud
How to avoid bottlenecks when building your setup

🎯 If you're serious about drone mapping, don’t waste time with underpowered hardware. Watch this before buying your next machine.

Got a question you'd like answered on the show? Visit ydqa.io or email chris@dronelaunchacademy.com.
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Software programs recommendations:
-https://support.dji.com/help/content?customId=en-us03400004965&spaceId=34&re=ID&lang=en&documentType=artical&paperDocType=paper
-https://support.pix4d.com/hc/en-us/articles/360032612791
-https://support.lp360.com/hc/en-us/articles/34736741165843-System-Requirements
-https://help.fieldsystems.trimble.com/tbc/system-requirements.htm

In this episode of "Your Drone Questions. Answered," host Chris Breedlove welcomes Eric Harkins from Back Forty Aerial Solutions to discuss best practices for target placement in both LiDAR and photogrammetric drone mapping missions.

Eric shares his extensive experience in aerial mapping and provides valuable insights on:

• The difference between ground control points (GCPs) and check shots
• Strategic placement of targets based on project size and terrain
• Target size considerations based on flight altitude
• Material selection for different project needs and conditions
• Dealing with lighting conditions in photogrammetry
• Target shapes and why certain designs are more effective
• Using existing features vs. custom targets
• Coordinating with field crews for consistent results
• Tips for working with previously set control points

Whether you're new to drone mapping or looking to improve your workflow, this episode offers practical advice to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of your aerial surveying projects.

For more information or to contact Eric:

• Email: eric@backfortydrones.com
• Phone: 803-727-5551
• https://www.backfortydrones.com/
• https://www.backfortydrones.com/post/understanding-the-importance-of-ground-control-points-gcp-in-drone-lidar-mapping

Have a drone question? Email chris@dronelaunchacademy.com or visit ydqa.io to submit your questions for future episodes!

In this episode of "Your Drone Questions Answered," host Chris Breedlove interviews Shawn Barry from Oak Island about how drones are transforming ocean rescue operations. As Oak Island's full-time drone operator for public safety, Shawn shares groundbreaking insights on:

• How drones deploy personal flotation devices (PFDs) to distressed swimmers in HALF the time of traditional rescue methods
• Real-world success stories, including 17 ocean rescues and 7 PFD deployments in 2024 alone
• The innovative use of drones to locate missing persons, assist with emergency medical supplies, and provide critical situational awareness
• How Oak Island's unique geography and leadership have positioned them as pioneers in drone rescue technology

Shawn explains how their M30T drone platform with specialized attachments has revolutionized their ability to respond to emergencies, from dropping auto-inflating PFDs to distressed swimmers to delivering AEDs to cardiac incidents on crowded beaches. Learn about their innovative rip current warning system and how community education has reduced rescue incidents.

LEDA Group: https://www.ledauas.org/

In this episode of "Your Drone Questions. Answered," we tackle the question: What are the different RTK correction methods for drone mapping missions, and when should you use each one?

We explore the differences between Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) and Post-Process Kinematic (PPK) workflows, breaking down how these technologies improve GNSS accuracy for professional drone mapping.

In this video, you'll learn:

-The fundamental differences between RTK and PPK
-Network-based vs. local base station correction methods
-How to handle mapping in remote areas with poor connectivity
-Why ground control points remain essential even with RTK drones
-The importance of maintaining workflow flexibility in the field
-How modern GNSS receivers can perform multiple functions simultaneously

Whether you're operating in areas with reliable cell service or mapping in the middle of nowhere, this episode provides practical guidance for choosing the right correction method for your specific situation.

Welcome back to Your Drone Questions. Answered. In this episode, we're diving into the exciting world of tethered drones—how they're being used today and where they're headed in the future.

We cover:

• What tethered drones are and how they differ from traditional UAVs
• Legal and regulatory considerations in the U.S. as of Q1 2025
• The main benefits of tethering (continuous power, data streaming, mobility)
• Real-world use cases: public safety, temporary security, event coverage, and broadcast
• Freefly’s innovative Flying Sun product for mobile aerial lighting
• Challenges and technical lessons from building tethered drone systems
• The future of tether tech, including UI/UX advancements and industry-specific solutions

Welcome back to another episode of Your Drone Questions. Answered.
Today we are answering the question 👉 "What equipment do I need to start drone mapping?"
Or more specifically… "What drone should I buy for mapping?"

In this episode, we cover:
🚁 Key drone features for mapping (automated missions, mechanical shutter, RTK/PPK compatibility)

🧠 What to consider if you're using consumer-grade drones like the Mini 4 Pro

📸 Sensor types, resolution, and why they matter for mapping quality

🌐 Choosing the right mapping software (DroneDeploy, PIX4D, DJI Terra, etc.)

🧰 Sample gear packages (from entry-level to enterprise setups)

🔌 Must-have accessories like GNSS receivers, RTK modules, and ground control gear

💻 Hardware + computing power you'll need for processing
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🚨 BONUS: We just launched the Advanced Drone Mapping & Modeling Certificate Program.
Be sure to check out the course here- https://dronelaunchacademy.com/admm/

In this episode of "Your Drone Questions. Answered," host Chris Breedlove and special guest Hansel Brand discuss the essential best practices for drone pilots operating near airports.

Learn about:

The importance of communicating with airport managers
Recommended safety distances from airports
Understanding airport traffic patterns
Using CTAF (Common Traffic Advisory Frequency)
Handling helicopter encounters
The value of visual observers when flying near busy airports