The use of drones in the construction sector has seen a remarkable rise in recent years, with almost all construction companies employing them in some capacity. Tomi Rolig, the head of drone operations at construction giant YIT, highlights that drones are now routinely flown at job sites, such as the ongoing construction at the railway station in Kauniainen, where a new urban rail line is being built. This integration of drone technology has been transformative for the industry, enabling more efficient monitoring and documentation of projects.

Drones are primarily used for mapping and creating three-dimensional models of construction sites, as well as capturing 360-degree panoramic images. These aerial surveys are crucial for maintaining situational awareness on job sites, particularly in complex projects where clarity about the progression of work is essential. Rolig elaborates that the ability to compare current images to previous ones allows construction teams to address disputes or locate lost materials, turning historical data into a valuable resource for project management.

As drone usage becomes more prevalent, construction companies are reaping the benefits of enhanced accuracy, efficiency, and clarity in their operations. The aerial imagery captured by drones plays a vital role in project meetings and stakeholder relations, fostering improved communication and decision-making in the development of infrastructure projects. The ongoing integration of drones into construction processes indicates a significant shift towards more technologically advanced methods in the industry, suggesting a promising future for such innovations.