Drones are Providing Opportunities in Remote and Isolated Communities

In recent years, drones have emerged as powerful tools that can revolutionize the way we interact with our environment. While their applications are vast, one area where drones can have a significant impact is in northern, remote, and isolated communities. These communities often face unique challenges due to their geographic location. Drones offer innovative solutions that can address these challenges, bringing about numerous benefits. Let's explore ten ways in which drones can positively impact these communities.

A drone pilot operating the DJI Inspire 2 in winter climate conditions at -15 degrees Celsius.

Here are 10 ways that drones can be used to assist with challenges faced in isolated and remote communities.

1. Improved Medical Services:

   Access to healthcare is often limited in remote areas. Drones can serve as a lifeline by delivering medical supplies, such as vaccines, medications, and emergency equipment, to isolated communities. They can also facilitate the transportation of lab samples for diagnostic purposes, providing faster and more efficient healthcare services.

2. Efficient Search and Rescue Operations:

   In emergencies, time is of the essence. Drones equipped with thermal imaging cameras and GPS capabilities can aid search and rescue operations in locating missing persons or stranded hikers, especially in challenging terrains. These aerial perspectives enable quicker response times, saving lives and reducing the risks associated with traditional ground searches.

3. Environmental Monitoring:

   Northern regions are often characterized by delicate ecosystems that require careful monitoring. Drones equipped with sensors and cameras can gather valuable data on wildlife populations, ice melting patterns, forest health, and more. This information aids in better understanding and managing the environment, allowing for informed decision-making and conservation efforts.

4. Efficient Cargo Delivery:

   Transporting goods to remote communities can be costly and time consuming. Drones can overcome these challenges by providing efficient cargo delivery services. They can transport essential supplies, food, and other necessities to remote areas quickly, cutting down on transportation costs and ensuring a steady supply chain.

5. Infrastructure Inspections:

   Maintaining infrastructure, such as power lines, bridges, and pipelines, is critical for the well-being of remote communities. Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras and sensors can inspect these structures, identifying potential issues, and allowing for timely repairs or maintenance. This proactive approach enhances community safety and reduces the risk of infrastructure failures.

6. STEM Education Learning Experiences:

   Science, technology, engineering and mathematics, in addition to the arts (as in #STEAM education) is a major focus in education as we continue to move into a world of increasing technological dependence. By combining drone technology with other emerging technologies, such as machine learning and coding, teachers can enhance the learning experience for young people looking for interesting and exciting career opportunities when they graduate from high school. In fact, in Canada, students can obtain their Basic RPAS (remotely piloted aircraft systems) pilot certificate as soon as they turn 14 years of age, meaning they can begin to use drone technology responsibly to get early skills development for future careers. On their 16th birthday, they will become eligible to obtain their Advanced RPAS pilot certificate, and in the United States their Part 107 pilot certificate from the FAA, which means they would effectively be enabled to operate drones almost anywhere as a professional pilot, provided they follow the communications and approvals protocols and processes set out in the Canadian Aviation Regulations and the Federal Aviation Regulations.

   In addition, many curricular outcomes across multiple disciplines (physics, chemistry, biology, science, mathematics, geography, English language arts, creative arts and more!) can be achieved by using drone technology as an educational tool. As Marshall McLuhan famously said, “the medium is the message;” it is all about the engagement!

7. Geographical Mapping and Surveying:

   Accurate mapping and surveying are crucial for land management, infrastructure development, and disaster preparedness. Drones equipped with advanced imaging technology can efficiently survey large areas, creating detailed maps and 3D models. This information aids in land planning, resource management, and identifying potential risks, enabling better decision making for community development.

   Additionally, many northern communities and communities near large bodies of water are faced with erosion issues due to thawing of permafrost. Some communities are literally sinking into the ocean! Closely tracking erosion is required through regular surveys, in some cases as often as bi-weekly, to track the rate of change over a relatively tight temporal frequency.

8. Enhanced Connectivity:

   Remote communities often struggle with limited or unreliable connectivity. Drones equipped with communication technology, such as Wi-Fi or cellular repeaters, can serve as flying communication hubs. They can extend the range of connectivity, providing internet access and communication capabilities to isolated areas, enabling remote communities to stay connected and bridge the digital divide.

   This application can be a lifesaver during states of emergency, when the standard infrastructure may be damaged or otherwise incapable of providing a reliable internet signal.

9. Remote Learning:

   Access to quality education is a challenge in remote regions. Drones equipped with cameras and streaming capabilities can facilitate remote learning by bringing educational resources directly to students. They can transmit live lessons, virtual field trips, and educational materials, enabling students in remote areas to access a broader range of educational opportunities.

10. Cultural Preservation and Tourism:

    Remote communities often possess rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Drones can capture stunning aerial footage and imagery, documenting and preserving cultural sites and landscapes. Furthermore, drones can enhance tourism by providing immersive aerial tours, showcasing the unique features and attractions of remote communities in a captivating way.

So much potential! How can communities start the process of engaging in drone technology?

Drones hold tremendous potential to address the unique challenges faced by northern, remote, and isolated communities. From improving access to healthcare and enabling efficient search and rescue operations to facilitating environmental monitoring and enhancing connectivity, drones offer a wide range of benefits. These technological marvels have the ability to revolutionize various aspects of life in remote areas, empowering communities with better services, increased safety, and enhanced opportunities for growth.

As drone technology continues to advance, it is crucial to foster collaboration and partnerships between communities, governments, and organizations to maximize the benefits and ensure responsible and ethical use of these aerial tools. By harnessing the power of drones, we can create a brighter and more inclusive future for northern, remote, and isolated communities.

Volatus Aerospace continues to forge ahead as a leader in this space, and we look forward to helping tackle some of these issues in the near future! We are ready and able to engage in specialized programming across North America, and in special circumstances, in other regions around the world. Please Contact Us if you are interested in learning more about our programs!