They have come to stay.

The iPhone, created by the company Apple and its founder Steve Jobs in 2007, revolutionized the world of telecommunications, transforming what was then a simple cell phone for making calls into a device capable of assisting us with countless daily tasks and keeping us connected to the outside world. Today, no one doubts the profound impact that smartphones have on our lives.
 
In a similar way, although it began in 2013 with the mass release of the first Phantom model, drones are making inroads into various fields, gaining more value in many activities every day. Some of these include:
  • “Cartography and elevation mapping
  • Precision photogrammetry for creating blueprints and cadastral information
  • Construction monitoring and control of electrical networks, oil pipelines, wind farms, thermal plants, and, in general, infrastructure projects
  • Inspection of confined areas in plants, tanks, channels, and tunnels
  • High-rise building facade cleaning
  • Transport and delivery of goods
  • Aerial taxi services
  • Precision agriculture
  • Cinematography
  • Advertising
  • Extreme sports
  • Monitoring forested areas and wildfire control
  • Ecosystem and natural park management
  • Search and rescue operations
  • Transporting medication to hard-to-reach areas
  • Security
  • Military activities
  • Border control
  • Inspection of insurance claims

The list will continue, and undoubtedly, the rapid advancement of technology will continue to enhance and accelerate this new service.

Their simplicity, versatility, and the fact that they are remotely controlled unmanned aircraft allow these devices to replace previously costly or risky activities in a more efficient, safe, and cost-effective manner.

It’s undoubtedly a new world for many. When you look at it now, it seems simple, but behind these achievements, there are many years of research and development and significant investments at the national level in various countries.

In the military field, the United States leads in the development and production of military drones, accounting for 80%, followed by China, Russia, India, Australia, and Israel, among others.

In the commercial field, China’s DJI, along with smaller companies in Europe and the United States, holds 70% of the market.

One of the initial challenges we face is formalizing this new industry and creating straightforward and reliable legislation that ensures the operation of these devices within safety regulations, while respecting people’s privacy and a nation’s sovereignty.

As a civil engineer with nearly 40 years of experience in various aspects of the construction business, I find it very enriching to combine this experience with new technology. Without a doubt, drones will become increasingly necessary and valuable in this field.

In the upcoming blogs, I plan to share my vision of what lies ahead for these devices and their impact on both my profession and the daily lives of thousands of people. I look forward to your readership.

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