With proper flight planning, RTK/PPK correction, and good ground control, drone site mapping routinely achieves centimeter-level accuracy. For volumetric analysis of stockpiles or highwalls, results are typically within 1–3% of traditional survey-grade instruments.

Yes. Highwall and pit slope monitoring is one of the most established drone workflows. By comparing repeated 3D models, geotechnical teams can detect cracks or small displacements that precede slope failures. LiDAR-equipped drones are especially valuable where poor lighting or dark rock surfaces make photogrammetry less reliable.

Common applications include crushers, conveyors, haul trucks, and stockpile feeders. Small drones can enter confined spaces or fly along gantries, capturing 4K video or thermal data without requiring scaffolding or lockouts. This reduces exposure to moving machinery and minimizes downtime.

For many site safety tasks, like haul road audits or surface mine surveying, photogrammetry is sufficient. LiDAR becomes essential where surfaces are low-texture, shadowed, or covered with vegetation, or when precise highwall geometry is required for geotechnical analysis.

Most drone missions take less than an hour. Aerial mapping of an entire pit can be done in a single flight, while localized inspections (e.g. conveyors, haul roads) may only take minutes. Data processing time depends on resolution and sensor type, but deliverables are often ready the same day.

While drones do not replace the need for a competent person’s exam, they provide objective, time-stamped imagery that strengthens MSHA inspection checklists. Many operators use drone data to document ground conditions, haul road berms, or post-blast clearances, creating defensible records for audits.

SLAM-enabled drones can map stopes, headings, and ore passes without human entry, reducing exposure to unsupported ground and poor ventilation. Engineers can review point clouds and video to assess convergence, rock integrity, or shotcrete conditions without risking personnel.

Outputs include orthomosaics, 3D point clouds, digital surface models, thermal imagery, and change-detection reports. These files can be exported into common formats like LAS, DXF, TIFF, or CSV, and integrated with mine planning and geotechnical software for further analysis.

In the U.S., all operators must hold a Part 107 certification. Beyond that, training in flight planning, data processing, and safety protocols is essential. Some workflows, like LiDAR or underground SLAM, require more advanced technical knowledge and software skills.

Harsh environments can affect data quality: dust, poor lighting, reflective water, or heavy winds all pose challenges. Underground, a limited communication range can restrict how far a drone can fly autonomously. Proper equipment selection, pilot training, and QA/QC procedures are critical to mitigate these limitations.