UAS have the potential to revolutionize DOT operations. UAS-based bridge inspections can be made safer and less costly by reducing the need to put a person in a dangerous position. Right-of-way (ROW) surveys can take place in hours as opposed to days. Traffic monitoring using UAS provides a unique perspective that would be cost-prohibitive using traditional aircraft. Aerial surveys of construction sites can be used to confirm contractors are meeting timelines and are adhering to environmental regulations. Search and rescue missions can happen more rapidly and at a lower cost, directing rescue teams to persons in need of assistance. As with any new technology, integrating UAS into operations poses challenges related to human resources, policies, procedures, and information technology.
The report for NCHRP Project 20-68A, Domestic Scan made specific recommendations for the successful implementation of UAS in organizational structure, policy and regulation, safety and risk management, training and crew qualifications, public relations, and application and operation. This project will draw on the NCHRP Project 20-68A to provide tailored UAS training in the areas of safety, risk management, flight operations near structures, night operations, and thermal sensing.
This project will implement a pilot training program for members of the Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTrans), Vermont Department of Public Safety (VT DPS), Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT), Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT), and the New Hampshire Department of Transportation (NHDOT). The training will aid these agencies in reducing UAS operational liability, maximize the UAS potential uses, enable DOT staff to perform UAS operations at a higher level more resourcefully, and shorten the response time for UAS-developed deliverables.
Our project team is a joint collaboration between the University of Vermont (UVM) and ARE Corporation (ARE). Collectively, we have nationally recognized experts in UAS safety, UAS operations near structure, UAS night operations, and thermal imaging. Our combined capabilities with respect to the number and diversity of UAS platforms, range of sensors, and training facilities are unmatched in the region. Most importantly, our team brings a history of collaborative endeavors, extensive experience developing and running UAS workshops, previous working relationships with all the participating agencies involved in the project, and the logistical and event planning staff needed to execute the training workshops.