Best Aerial Survey Software, Tools, and AI Solutions

Aerial surveying has become increasingly sophisticated, thanks to advancements in software, tools, and AI technologies. Whether you’re managing large-scale land assessments or detailed environmental studies, the right tools can make a significant difference. This guide covers some of the most notable software and tools available for aerial surveying in 2024, helping you choose the best options for your needs. From traditional software to cutting-edge AI, we’ll break down what each offers and how they can enhance your aerial survey projects.

1. FlyPix AI

FlyPix AI is a geospatial platform designed to analyze Earth’s surface using advanced artificial intelligence. It specializes in detecting and analyzing objects within geospatial images, making it a valuable tool for industries that rely on detailed and accurate spatial data. Users can train AI models to identify specific items and work with data tied to precise geographic coordinates. The platform is adaptable, allowing users from various sectors, such as construction, agriculture, and government, to customize models and gain insights relevant to their specific needs.

Pricing Plans

• Basic (Free):
  This plan is intended for individual users with minimal requirements. It includes 3GB of storage and 10 credits, with access to FlyPix AI models and basic analytics. Support is limited, and advanced features like multispectral data are not included.
• Starter (€50/month per user):
  The Starter plan is designed for small teams needing more storage (10GB) and monthly credits (50 credits). It includes processing for up to 1 gigapixel and features such as export vector layers and access to multispectral data. Support is provided via email within 5 business days.
• Standard (€500/month for 2 users):
  This plan is tailored for medium-sized teams requiring greater processing power (12 gigapixels) and storage (120GB). It includes 500 monthly credits plus an additional 100 credits, along with enhanced collaboration tools like map sharing. Support response time is within 2 business days via email.
• Professional (€2000/month for 5 users):
  The Professional plan is geared towards large teams with extensive geospatial needs. It offers 600GB of storage, processing for 60 gigapixels, and 3,000 monthly credits. Users receive advanced support, including a 1-hour email response time and access to a support chat. Additional features include API access, extra quality assurance with GIS experts, and the ability to publish maps.

Pros

• Offers a wide range of AI-driven tools for geospatial analysis.
• Flexible pricing plans to accommodate different user needs.
• Allows users to train custom AI models without programming knowledge.

Cons

• Advanced features and higher processing capabilities are limited to more expensive plans.
• Limited support for lower-tier plans, which may hinder users needing quick assistance.

Contact Information

• Website: flypix.ai
• Address: Robert-Bosch-Str. 7, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
• Contact Email: info@flypix.ai
• Phone Number: +49 6151 2776497
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/flypix-ai

2. Trinity Pro

Trinity Pro is an advanced aerial mapping solution designed to adapt to changing requirements in various industries, offering reliable and easy-to-use features. Initially launched in 2018, Trinity Pro has proven its performance with features like the Quantum-Skynode autopilot, which enhances computing power, internal storage, and connectivity. This platform supports future integrations such as AI capabilities, allowing professionals to make informed decisions based on aerial data. With its high wind tolerance, extensive area coverage, and long flight times, Trinity Pro is engineered to maximize operational efficiency and streamline workflows.

Trinity Pro offers an integrated system with QBase 3D software, allowing users to plan and execute missions effortlessly. The platform also supports multiple camera options, including RGB, oblique, multispectral, and LiDAR, which can be easily swapped using the quick-lock mechanism. This flexibility, combined with advanced safety features and the ability to integrate new technology as it evolves, positions Trinity Pro as a future-proof investment for businesses looking to expand their aerial mapping capabilities.

Pricing Plans:

• Eventually, specific pricing details for the Trinity Pro are not publicly disclosed on their website.

Pros:

• High wind tolerance and extensive area coverage.
• Flexible camera options with easy swapping mechanisms.
• Future-proof design with support for upcoming AI integrations.

Cons:

• Higher initial investment compared to basic drones.
• Requires training to fully utilize advanced features.

Contact and Social Media Information:

• Website: quantum-systems.com
• Address: Quantum-Systems GmbH, Dornierstraße 11, 82205 Gilching, Germany
• Email: info@quantum-systems.com
• Phone number: +49 (0)89 307 6678 0
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/quantum-systems-gmbh
• Twitter: twitter.com/quantumsystems_
• YouTube: youtube.com/c/QuantumSystems
• Facebook: facebook.com/QuantumSystemsUAV

3. Elistair Safe-T 2 Tethered Station

The Elistair Safe-T 2 is an advanced tethered drone station designed for robust performance in demanding missions. It features a rugged construction certified to IP54 standards, ensuring durability and weather resistance. Equipped with a 100m micro-tether, the Safe-T 2 enables uninterrupted aerial surveillance and telecommunications operations, even in adverse weather conditions. It supports a wide range of drones, including the DJI Matrice 350, and offers an optional fiber optics micro-tether for enhanced data transfer capabilities.

Pricing Plans

Currently, specific pricing details for the Elistair Safe-T 2 tethered station are not publicly disclosed on their website. For detailed pricing information and quotes, interested parties are advised to contact Elistair directly.

Pros

• Robust, weather-resistant design suitable for outdoor operations.
• Compatible with a variety of drones, providing flexibility in aerial surveillance applications.
• Optional fiber optics micro-tether for high-speed data transfer.

Cons

• Detailed pricing information is not readily available online and requires direct inquiry.
• The complexity of setup and operation may require training or technical support.

Contact and Social Media Information

• Website: Elistair Safe-T 2
• Address: 3 Chemin du Jubin, 69570 Dardilly, France
• Phone number: +33 9 83 57 06 39
• Twitter: twitter.com/Elistair
• YouTube: youtube.com/c/Elistair-drone

4. Pix4D

Pix4D offers advanced photogrammetry software designed for professional drone and terrestrial mapping. The platform transforms images into georeferenced orthomosaics, point clouds, 2D maps, and 3D models, providing tools for precise analysis, inspections, and measurements. Pix4D’s suite of products, including PIX4Dmapper, PIX4Dmatic, and others, caters to industries ranging from construction and agriculture to emergency response, enabling users to create accurate, actionable data from both aerial and ground-based imagery.

Pix4D’s software integrates photogrammetry with other technologies like LiDAR, providing a comprehensive solution for mapping large areas, detailed corridors, and complex terrains. The software’s compatibility with a variety of drones and its ability to produce CAD-ready deliverables make it a versatile tool for professionals who need reliable and efficient mapping solutions.

Pricing Plans

• PIX4Dmapper: Starting from €241.67 per month, this plan includes comprehensive tools for drone mapping, enabling users to generate survey-grade outputs for various applications.
• PIX4Dmatic: Starting from €138.61 per month, this next-generation software combines photogrammetry and terrestrial LiDAR for fast, accurate large-scale mapping and detailed corridor mapping.
• PIX4Dsurvey: Starting from €97.22 per month, this plan focuses on bridging the gap between photogrammetry and CAD, offering tools to extract data and create CAD-ready deliverables from point clouds.
• PIX4Dreact: Starting from €37.50 per month, this plan provides rapid processing of aerial imagery to create 2D maps for situational awareness, particularly in emergency response scenarios.
• PIX4Dfields: Starting from €65.28 per month, this software is tailored for precision agriculture, offering tools for crop analysis and digital farming using drone imagery.

Pros

• Extensive compatibility with various drones.
• Integration of photogrammetry and LiDAR technologies.
• Specialized tools for different industries, including agriculture, construction, and emergency response.

Cons

• The software may require a steep learning curve for beginners.
• Higher pricing compared to some other photogrammetry solutions.

Contact and Social Media Information

• Website: pix4d.com
• Address: Pix4D SA, EPFL Innovation Park, Building C, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
• Email: info@pix4d.com
• Phone number: +41 21 552 05 90
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/pix4d
• Twitter: twitter.com/Pix4D
• Facebook: facebook.com/Pix4D

5. Correlator3D™

Correlator3D™ is a photogrammetry software developed by SimActive, designed to process geospatial data from various types of imagery, including satellite, aerial, and drone images. This software performs aerial triangulation and generates high-quality digital surface models (DSM), digital terrain models (DTM), point clouds, orthomosaics, 3D models, and vectorized 3D features. Its processing capabilities are enhanced by GPU technology and multi-core CPUs, ensuring high-speed data processing and the efficient handling of large datasets.

The software supports a wide range of sensor platforms, including drones, aircraft, and satellites, and offers a modular architecture that includes aerial triangulation, DSM and point cloud generation, DTM extraction, orthorectification, mosaic creation, and 3D model generation. Correlator3D™ is designed for various industries such as surveying, construction, agriculture, and emergency response, providing tools for GCP creation, point cloud colorization, and 3D change detection, among other advanced features.

Pricing Plans

• Monthly Subscription: €295 per month, offering access to all modules and tools with no limit on the number of images processed.
• Yearly Subscription: €2,950 per year, including the same features as the monthly plan but at a discounted rate.
• Permanent License: €5,900 for a one-time purchase, with access to all modules and tools for an indefinite period.
• Permanent Floating License: €6,400 for a one-time purchase, allowing the software to be used across multiple machines within an organization.

Pros

• Fast processing speed with GPU and multi-core CPU support.
• Unlimited image handling capacity.
• Supports a variety of sensor platforms and imagery types.
• Comprehensive suite of tools for photogrammetry and data processing.
• High survey-grade accuracy and detailed reporting capabilities.

Cons

• Pricing may be high for smaller organizations or individual users.
• Requires a standard PC with specific hardware and software requirements.

Contact and Social Media Information

• Website: simactive.com
• Address: 465 St-Jean Suite 701, Montreal, Quebec, H2Y 2R6, Canada
• Email: contact@simactive.com
• Phone number: +1 514 288-2666
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/simactive
• Twitter: twitter.com/simactiveinc?lang=en
• YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCM8QWpm5kEwxWdD05J2Fqrw
• Facebook: facebook.com/SimActive

6. OpenDroneMap

OpenDroneMap is an open-source toolkit designed for processing aerial imagery collected by drones, balloons, or kites. Established in 2014, it has become a standard in open-source drone image processing. The suite includes several tools: ODM, a command-line toolkit for generating maps, point clouds, and 3D models; WebODM, a web-based application with visualization and data analysis features; NodeODM, a lightweight REST API for accessing ODM; CloudODM, which offers cloud-based image processing; PyODM, a Python SDK for integrating aerial image processing into applications; and ClusterODM, a reverse proxy and load balancer for scaling NodeODM.

In addition to these, the suite includes NodeMICMAC, a Node.js app for accessing MicMac; FIELDimageR, an R package for analyzing agricultural field trial images; and Find-GCP, a tool for detecting ArUco markers in photos. The OpenDroneMap project emphasizes sustainability and community involvement, providing tools that support collaborative development and integration.

Pricing Plans

WebODM (Self-Install)

• Price: Free
• Function: This option allows users to download and install WebODM on their own server. It is a cost-effective solution for users who are comfortable with setting up and managing their server infrastructure.

WebODM Lightning (Cloud Processing)

• Price: Starting at $29 per month
• Function: WebODM Lightning offers cloud-based processing with flexible plans depending on the user’s needs. It is ideal for users who prefer not to manage their infrastructure and want a more convenient, scalable solution.

WebODM Installer for Windows/Mac/Linux

• Price: $57 one-time fee
• Function: This option provides a simplified installation process for users who want to run WebODM on their local machine without dealing with the complexities of setting it up manually. The one-time fee covers installation on Windows, Mac, or Linux.

Pros

• Open-source, allowing for extensive customization and community collaboration.
• Versatile suite covering various aspects of aerial data processing.
• Offers both cloud and local processing options to suit different needs.

Cons

• Some tools require command-line skills or technical knowledge for setup and use.
• Limited support for non-technical users unless opting for paid installation services.

Contact and Social Media Information

• Website: opendronemap.org
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/opendronemap

7. Virtual Surveyor

Virtual Surveyor is a software platform designed for processing and analyzing drone data for surveying purposes. It supports various applications such as topographic surveying, mining and quarrying, construction earthworks, and stockpile inventory management. Users can convert drone imagery into detailed 2D and 3D models, including CAD-compatible formats. The software integrates with drone photogrammetry outputs to create accurate elevation models and generate reports suitable for civil engineering and construction projects.

The platform offers a streamlined process from flying a drone to delivering survey results. Users can acquire images, process them into orthophotos and elevation models using the Terrain Creator app, and then perform detailed analyses with the Virtual Surveyor app. It allows for flexible subscription plans tailored to different project sizes and needs, ensuring users pay only for the features and duration they require.

Pricing Plans

Valley Plan
The Valley Plan is a free option designed for basic topographic surveys of small areas. It includes essential features such as importing orthophotos and DSMs, converting point clouds, creating profiles, and exporting to CAD formats.

Ridge Plan
The Ridge Plan is priced at $150 per month and is suited for advanced topographic and quantity surveys. It includes all features of the Valley Plan plus advanced photogrammetry, regular point grids, and stockpile reporting capabilities.

Peak Plan
The Peak Plan costs $225 per month and is intended for larger projects requiring ongoing progress tracking. It incorporates all features of the Ridge Plan with additional tools for comparing data over time, cut-and-fill maps, and intelligent point grids.

Pros

• Offers a range of plans to fit various project sizes and needs.
• Provides tools for detailed analysis and reporting, including stockpile inventory and construction earthworks.
• Supports CAD and PDF exports, facilitating integration with other design tools.

Cons

• The cost of advanced plans may be high for smaller projects or infrequent users.
• Some advanced features are only available in the higher-tier plans.

Contact and Social Media Information

• Website: virtual-surveyor.com
• Email: info@virtual-surveyor.com
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/virtual-surveyor
• YouTube: youtube.com/c/VirtualSurveyor

8. Autodesk Drone Data Processing

Autodesk offers a comprehensive suite of tools designed for drone data processing, tailored specifically for professionals in architecture, engineering, and construction. Their software integrates various capabilities, including design, visualization, and analysis, allowing users to efficiently plan, design, and construct projects. Autodesk’s drone data processing tools enable users to capture detailed site data, create 3D models, and perform accurate analysis, facilitating better decision-making throughout the project lifecycle.

The platform supports a wide range of drone models and provides cloud-based processing, ensuring scalability and flexibility for projects of all sizes. By utilizing Autodesk’s tools, users can streamline workflows, enhance collaboration, and improve project outcomes by leveraging accurate, real-time data.

Pricing Plans:

• Standard Plan: Provides basic access to Autodesk’s drone data processing tools, suitable for small projects and individual users. This plan includes essential features such as data capture, 3D modeling, and basic analysis tools.
• Premium Plan: Designed for larger teams and more complex projects, this plan offers advanced features such as enhanced data processing capabilities, extended cloud storage, and additional collaboration tools. Users in this tier benefit from faster processing times and more robust data management options.
• Enterprise Plan: Tailored for organizations with extensive requirements, the Enterprise Plan includes all features of the Premium Plan, along with dedicated support, custom integration options, and additional security measures. This plan is ideal for large-scale projects that require comprehensive data management and processing solutions.

Pros

• Seamless integration with other Autodesk tools for a cohesive workflow.
• Cloud-based processing allows for scalability and accessibility.
• Comprehensive support for a wide range of drone models and data formats.

Cons

• The learning curve can be steep for new users unfamiliar with Autodesk’s ecosystem.
• Higher-tier plans may be cost-prohibitive for smaller firms or individual users.

Contact and Social Media Information

• Website: autodesk.com
• Address: 111 McInnis Parkway, San Rafael, CA 94903, USA
• Phone number: +1 415-507-5000
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/autodesk
• Twitter: twitter.com/autodesk
• YouTube: youtube.com/user/Autodesk
• Facebook: facebook.com/autodesk

9. DroneMapper

DroneMapper offers desktop photogrammetry software designed for processing aerial imagery. The two primary versions available are REMOTE EXPERT and RAPID. REMOTE EXPERT supports processing up to 10,000 images per project and can generate orthomosaics, Digital Elevation Models (DEMs), and other geospatial products. RAPID, a more limited version, handles up to 250 images per project and offers similar functionalities. Both software options are compatible with Windows and are available for either perpetual licensing (REMOTE EXPERT) or annual subscriptions (RAPID).

In addition to its software offerings, DroneMapper provides cloud-based processing services for large-scale geospatial data. These services include the generation of georeferenced orthomosaics, DEMs, and point clouds, among other products. The company also supports precision agriculture and enterprise solutions, addressing big data challenges and offering automated data analytics through their cloud servers.

Pricing Plans

RAPID

• Price: $159 per year
• Function: A cost-effective solution for smaller projects, RAPID allows processing up to 250 images per project. It includes free processing to the preview stage and access to all Remote Expert features, making it ideal for users with less demanding requirements.

REMOTE EXPERT

• Price: $999 (Perpetual License)
• Function: Designed for more advanced users, REMOTE EXPERT handles up to 10,000 images per project and offers full-resolution processing, ground control points, oblique processing, and NDVI generation. It also includes various GIS functions such as cut/fill/volume calculations, raster clipping, KMZ exports, and advanced tie-point generation. This is a comprehensive solution for professional geospatial analysis.

SUPPORT

• Price: Call for Quote
• Function: Provides personalized support and training, including human support, GIS training, hands-on assistance, and enterprise-level support. This service is tailored to meet the specific needs of businesses that require expert guidance.

Pros

• Extensive Image Support: REMOTE EXPERT can process a large number of images, making it suitable for extensive projects.
• Cloud Processing: The company offers cloud-based solutions for handling large data sets and providing automated analytics.
• Precision Agriculture: The tools are designed to support precision agriculture and other enterprise applications.

Cons

• Limited in RAPID: The RAPID version is restricted to processing 250 images, which may not meet the needs of larger projects.
• Windows Compatibility Only: The software is compatible only with Windows, which may limit its accessibility for users on other operating systems.

Contact and Social Media Information

• Website: dronemapper.com
• Address: 18656 Eastridge Rd., Cedaredge, Colorado 81413, USA
• Phone number: 970-417-1102
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/dronemapper
• Twitter: twitter.com/dronemapper
• YouTube: youtube.com/c/DronesMapper
• Facebook: facebook.com/dronemapper

10. MicroSurvey CAD

MicroSurvey CAD is a specialized CAD software designed primarily for land surveyors and engineering professionals. It focuses on enhancing efficiency through a comprehensive suite of tools that support a range of workflows and data formats. The platform allows users to create accurate drawings and perform detailed calculations directly from field data. It integrates various functions, including survey-focused calculations, GIS data handling, and surface modeling, into one package.

The software offers capabilities for transforming field data into deliverables using its “Field to Finish” process. It supports a wide range of input formats from tools like total stations, GNSS devices, UAVs, and scanners. The “AutoMap” feature provides customizable options for processing incoming data, simplifying revisions and publishing results without the need to switch to other CAD programs.

Pricing Plans

MicroSurvey CAD 2024 Basic

• Price: $1,995.00 USD (One-Time Payment)
• Function: A cost-effective CAD solution for land surveyors and drafters, offering essential tools for drafting and basic survey calculations.

MicroSurvey CAD 2024 Basic (Annual Maintenance Subscription)

• Price: $395.00 USD per year
• Function: Provides updates and support for users of the Basic version, ensuring access to the latest features and technical assistance.

MicroSurvey CAD 2024 Standard

• Price: $2,695.00 USD (One-Time Payment)
• Function: A comprehensive CAD solution for land surveyors, contractors, and engineers, featuring tools for drafting, designing, and analyzing survey data.

MicroSurvey CAD 2024 Standard (Annual Maintenance Subscription)

• Price: $495.00 USD per year
• Function: Offers updates and support for the Standard version, keeping the software up-to-date and providing ongoing technical assistance.

MicroSurvey CAD 2024 Studio

• Price: $3,195.00 USD (One-Time Payment)
• Function: Includes all the features of the Standard version, plus advanced tools for 3D modeling and visualization, ideal for users needing more sophisticated design capabilities.

MicroSurvey CAD 2024 Studio (Annual Maintenance Subscription)

• Price: $595.00 USD per year
• Function: Provides updates and support for Studio users, ensuring access to the latest 3D tools and ongoing technical support.

MicroSurvey CAD 2024 Premium

• Price: $3,495.00 USD (One-Time Payment)
• Function: Includes all the features of MicroSurvey CAD Standard plus additional advanced tools for more complex projects.

MicroSurvey CAD 2024 Premium (Annual Maintenance Subscription)

• Price: $595.00 USD per year
• Function: Offers premium users access to updates and support, helping them stay ahead with the latest tools and services.

MicroSurvey CAD 2024 Ultimate

• Price: $4,195.00 USD (One-Time Payment)
• Function: The Ultimate version includes all features available in the MicroSurvey CAD package, providing the most comprehensive toolset for demanding projects.

MicroSurvey CAD 2024 Ultimate (Annual Maintenance Subscription)

• Price: $695.00 USD per year
• Function: Ensures that users of the Ultimate package receive all updates and premium support, maintaining the highest level of software performance and functionality.

Pros

• Comprehensive toolset for various surveying and CAD tasks
• Integration of multiple functionalities into a single platform
• Customizable interface to fit user preferences and workflow needs
• Support for a wide range of data formats and field devices

Cons

• May have a steeper learning curve for new users due to its extensive feature set
• Pricing details are not openly listed and may require direct inquiry for specifics

Contact and Social Media Information

• Website: microsurvey.com
• Address: 3500 Carrington Rd #205, West Kelowna, B.C., Canada
• Email: marketing@microsurvey.com
• Phone number: 1-800-668-3312
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/microsurvey
• Twitter: twitter.com/microsurvey
• Facebook: facebook.com/microsurvey

Conclusion

As we wrap up our look at the top aerial survey software and tools for 2024, it’s clear that the field is evolving rapidly with impressive advancements. From photogrammetry software that turns drone images into detailed 3D models, to geospatial analytics tools that offer deep insights from aerial data, there’s something for every need.

When choosing the right tool, consider what fits best with your specific requirements—whether it’s for high-precision mapping, large-scale data management, or user-friendly interfaces. Each tool has its own strengths and weaknesses, so think about what matters most to your projects.

The advancements in aerial survey technology are making it easier to gather accurate, actionable data, and these tools are at the forefront of that change. By staying informed about the latest options, you can make better decisions and enhance your surveying capabilities.

Hopefully, this overview has given you a good starting point to explore the tools that best fit your needs and to keep an eye on emerging technologies in this exciting field.