DroneDeploy is changing how large-scale U.S. construction projects are monitored with its new FAA-approved Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone operations. The nationwide approval allows fully autonomous drones to fly over data centers and AI infrastructure projects without a pilot on site, capturing real-time aerial imagery and analytics. The program provides builders with a faster and safer way to manage critical AI infrastructure.
DroneDeploy has received FAA approval for nationwide BVLOS operations, marking a turning point for how large-scale U.S. construction projects are monitored. Over 80% of DroneDeploy’s top 50 projects involve major data-center and hyperscale construction, representing nearly $35 billion in infrastructure development. These sites require precise, frequent documentation, something manual teams can’t match in terms of speed or coverage. With BVLOS approval, each drone can scan hundreds of acres daily, keeping project managers and engineers updated in near real time.
AI-powered visibility speeds up decision-making
Once data is captured, DroneDeploy’s platform compares imagery to design models and schedule milestones, flagging deviations and potential delays. It provides actionable visuals for construction managers who need to verify completed work or spot quality issues before they become costly. “Our BVLOS capabilities let us put fully autonomous drones on job sites, helping customers accelerate construction timelines and improve speed, safety, and quality,” said DroneDeploy CEO Mike Winn.
The system also reduces safety risks by cutting the need for workers to climb scaffolds or lifts for inspections. Remote access to high-accuracy aerial data enables teams to coordinate more effectively, reduce site congestion, and maintain tighter quality control.
A pilot rollout at large data-center sites in Virginia and Texas has shown measurable gains—daily progress mapping time dropped from 8 hours to less than 1, with image accuracy within 2 centimeters.
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