Is Automation of UAS in the Caribbean a Strategic Tool or Misplaced Priority?
The automation of Unmanned Aerial zSystems (UAS) holds promise for the Caribbean, but only if we approach it with clarity and purpose. Yes, automated drones can support agriculture, disaster relief, and environmental monitoring. For small island states, that’s not trivial. But technology without strategy is just noise. The real issue? Fragmented regulation, limited technical capacity, […]
Using Mapping & Photogrammetry in Caribbean Disaster Response
In our region every year we brace for hurricanes and its oft associated disaster, flooding. Along with earthquakes, we face urgent challenges in disaster preparedness and recovery. Mapping and photogrammetry, powered by UAVs and satellite imagery, are emerging as tools than can enhance response efforts and build resilience. Photogrammetry is the science of extracting accurate […]
UAVs in GIS in the Caribbean
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are fast transforming Geographic Information Systems (GIS) applications worldwide, offering access to high-resolution spatial data. From agriculture in India to smart city planning in Saudi Arabia, UAVs are being deployed to map terrain, monitor infrastructure, and respond to disasters with speed and accuracy. In countries like the United States and Germany, […]
Part 108, the next frontier for UAVs
The upcoming FAA regulation known as Part 108 is poised to reshape the UAV landscape by enabling routine Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations, “without the need for case-by-case waivers”. For UAV pilots, businesses, and government agencies, this marks a seismic shift from the limitations of Part 107. So exactly what’s changing? Industries like […]
Drone Mapping, A Game-changer for Caribbean Development
Image source: https://theenterpriseworld.com/drone-mapping-technology/ Drone mapping is the process of using UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) to capture aerial imagery and convert it into detailed maps, 3D models, and geospatial data. By flying over an area and taking overlapping photos, UAVs, paired with mapping software, can generate high-resolution orthomosaics, elevation models, and terrain analyses that are accurate […]
The Value of AI in UAVs for the Caribbean
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), unlocking new possibilities for industries across the Caribbean. From agriculture and disaster response to infrastructure monitoring, AI-powered drones are enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and automation. Transforming Key Sectors AI enables UAVs to: Despite its potential, AI integration faces hurdles such as regulatory adaptation, investment in technology, and […]
FAA Part 108 and Its Impact on the Caribbean
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is set to introduce Part 108, a groundbreaking regulation that will standardize Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations. This rule is expected to transform commercial drone usage, particularly in regions like the Caribbean, where UAVs are increasingly vital for agriculture, disaster response, and infrastructure monitoring. The Caribbean, with […]
Choosing the right tool for UAV Mapping
In the evolving world of drone-based geospatial mapping, two technologies dominate the conversation: photogrammetry and LiDAR. While both offer high-accuracy 3D data, their strengths and ideal use cases differ significantly. We came across a great article and here we share some points from the article with our readers. Photogrammetry uses passive sensors to capture reflected […]
Caribbean UAV Regulations and Weather Conditions
Regulations across the Caribbean significantly influence drone operations, particularly in adverse weather. While each country has its own aviation authority, common themes emerge in how weather-related risks are managed. Many Caribbean nations impose strict no-fly zones during extreme weather events, such as hurricanes and tropical storms. Authorities like the Trinidad and Tobago Civil Aviation Authority […]
Economic Implications of Weather on UAV Usage
Weather-related challenges significantly impact the economics of drone operations, influencing costs, market viability, and long-term adoption.Increased Maintenance and Operational Costs Extreme weather conditions—such as strong winds, high humidity, and sudden storms—accelerate wear on drone components, leading to frequent repairs or replacements. Waterproofing, heat-resistant materials, and advanced stabilization systems raise manufacturing costs and, consequently, market prices. […]
