Remote-operated “drone-in-a-box” system delivers weekly 2D and 3D data for construction monitoring
Skyports Drone Services has partnered with HOCHTIEF to deploy an automated drone surveying system at a major bridge construction project in Germany. The deployment brings routine beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations to the Rheinbrücke Leverkusen site near Cologne, offering a new approach to tracking construction progress.
The system uses a fixed “drone-in-a-box” setup to conduct weekly aerial surveys. Operators manage the missions remotely from Skyports’ Remote Operation Centre in Madrid, Spain. This approach removes the need for on-site pilots and enables consistent data collection over time.
Moving from Manual to Automated Monitoring
The Rheinbrücke Leverkusen bridge is a large and complex project, expected to continue through 2028. It involves significant earthworks, demolition of the existing structure, and new construction on both sides of the Rhine River.
Before this deployment, project monitoring relied on manual methods and occasional drone flights. These surveys were limited in frequency and required personnel on site. The new system introduces a fully automated workflow, allowing regular data capture without requiring physical access.
Each flight collects data that is processed into both 2D and 3D outputs. The resulting models provide a detailed view of the site and allow teams to track changes week by week. This supports earlier detection of issues and helps reduce the risk of delays or cost overruns.
Data-Driven Insights for Construction Teams
The survey data is processed using DroneDeploy software, which produces visual models and reports for progress tracking. These models support planning and coordination across teams, offering a consistent and measurable view of site activity.
Alex Brown, CEO of Skyports Drone Services, highlighted the role of automation and remote operations in improving project outcomes:
“Large infrastructure projects are incredibly intricate and complex, with construction companies under pressure to deliver on time and on budget. With automated ‘drone-in-a-box’ surveys like this we’re providing alternate perspectives and deep level data insights that can improve resource planning and catch any potential issues early, helping keep projects on track. Piloting the drone remotely also means we are creating operational efficiencies, improving cost and data outputs for our customers.”
From the construction side, HOCHTIEF emphasized the operational value of consistent and accurate data. Klaus Grüttner, Executive Vice President Europe at HOCHTIEF Infrastructure, said:
“By partnering with Skyports, we have a leading innovator in drone technology at our side to drive our complex construction projects. This cooperation enables us to monitor the construction progress seamlessly and cost-efficiently and to provide targeted support in billing, especially in earthworks. In addition, we benefit from precise surveying data that supports a continuous target/actual comparison and the optimization of our construction processes.”
Expanding the Role of Remote Drone Operations
The project reflects a broader shift toward automated and remotely managed drone operations in infrastructure and construction. By combining BVLOS capability with fixed docking systems, operators can collect frequent, standardized data without the constraints of on-site deployment.
For large-scale projects, this approach may offer a more consistent way to monitor progress and manage risk. It also aligns with ongoing industry efforts to scale BVLOS operations and integrate drones more fully into routine workflows.
As regulatory frameworks evolve, deployments like this one provide a working example of how remote operations and automation can support complex, long-term projects.
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Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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