F A Q

Coast Aerial Imaging has over 7 years in the UAV business operating multiple types of drones and over 30 years flying radio control aircraft.

Yes, we are licensed thru the FAA.

Yes, but before we accept any project, we will carefully define exactly what the client needs and determine if we can provide those services for you. CAI can provide aerial video and photography, 3D maps, and high-resolution orthophotos.

We use many programs to deliver our final results. There are many types of deliverables and you need to plan on how you will view or use those items. One of the issues will be how powerful your computer is. We can help you determine if your desktop or laptop has the capability of displaying large files or 3D maps.

CAI carries a minimum of 2m in liability insurance. We are a bonded LLC company operating in south Ms. If a project requires more and we accept the job, our insurance will be adjusted.

All UAV flights operated for commercial purposes must adhere to strict FAA rules and guidelines. Our UAV fleet is constantly checked for mechanical issues and for any software and firmware updates. CAI uses a flight checklist that ensures the operator that the UAV has been inspected before the flight.

CAI uses the top-of-the-line DJI M300. It has many safety features and system backups. In some airspace, we use an RTK system on the ground which provides superior connections to the UAV. Depending on the job, the airspace radio frequency "noise" can be so bad, that the only way a UAV can operate safely is by using the RTK system. Our P1 color camera is the highest quality on the market. It provides superior photos that are needed for the highest quality 3D maps. The L2 LIDAR scanner is the most recent model offered by DJI. If you require a TOPO map with ground elevation, using the LIDAR will be the only way to capture the ground surface under dense trees and vegetation. Remember that specialized conditions will require the right tools for the job.

All UAV maintenance is performed per the manufacturer's guidelines. Any parts that are suspect as defective, will be replaced.

Prices for drone work can range from a few hundred dollars to many thousands of dollars. Premium services like thermal scans, photogrammetry, 3D modeling, or LIDAR scans may require very sophisticated and expensive equipment. While you can use a $1500 drone to perform photogrammetry, you will not get the high-resolution 3D model unless you use high-end cameras like the ones CAI provides. Also, don't forget the software to build the maps.

After discussing the project with the client CAI will forward a quote to you. The quote may be non-binding but it will clearly document exactly what you will be requesting and what CAI will be providing. Price quotes may also have an expiration date. The quote will also include payment terms and any special conditions that might apply to the project. Once the client looks over the document and agrees with the quote, a time and conditions will be discussed to complete the project. The client will receive an invoice at the project end.

CAI has over 30 years of photo and video experience including 7 years flying UAVs. Cameras and drones have changed quite a lot in the last 30 years.  Today, anyone can purchase a drone, successfully fly it, and call themselves a pilot. Actually, you are more of an operator than a pilot, and that "operation" includes the aircraft, camera system, and software you use.  How well can you manually operate the camera systems and flight software? Although you can get away with using "auto" mode in some situations, you must be able to operate the UAV camera systems manually. This is the only way to ensure you get the most out of your camera when conducting operations during challenging conditions. Sadly most UAV operators never learn that skill. CAI strives to provide the ultimate quality for our clients in everything we do and that's a promise!

For simple jobs, it may only take one day. Larger jobs like photogrammetry maps that include thousands of photos may take several days. Also, the weather can greatly affect a project's timetable.

CAI can offer a two-day advanced mapping class. The class covers different mapping techniques that range from the flight of the drone to the best settings for your camera. We believe that there are many times when manual settings are best for the lighting conditions and you need to know what the best settings to use. CAI will also explain why you choose manual camera settings in some situations. We also cover different software possibilities ranging from processing on local computers or uploading to paid services. What are the benefits and the downsides to both?