UTILIZATION OF UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS FOR DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION OPERATIONS

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not yet standardized usage regulations for unmanned aircraft systems (UASs) and those regulations are still evolving. Consequently, this lack of standardization creates tedious obstacles for UAS users. The goal of this research was to provide a justified recommendation to the Department of Transportation regarding the benefits of UAS implementation into routine operations, as well as advice on specific UAS equipment that benefits KDOT. This paper includes a literature review that lists commercial companies currently using UASs after gaining a Certificate of Authorization exemption and describes research of using UASs for the purposes of assisting or replacing tasks at a state's DOT. Potential applications and concerns regarding UAS usage are also included in the literature review. An online survey was created and sent to all USDOT offices with questions pertaining to demographics, current operations, and if that DOT office is currently using the new technology, or is only considering it. An economic analysis was completed using data from several departments. Out of the nine areas considered for implementing UAS, seven could realize benefits in safety, efficiency, and a possible cost savings. The recommended UAS applications are in bridge inspection, radio tower inspection, surveying, road mapping, high-mast light tower inspection, stockpile measurement, and aerial photography.