Advantages:
-Speed and efficiency — drones can cover survey areas much faster than ground methods.
-Access to challenging terrains — enables surveys in areas that are difficult or dangerous for ground crews (swamps, cliffs, etc.).
-Profile consistency — flight lines are easily kept straight and evenly spaced thanks to autopilot and terrain-following systems. On the ground, this is harder to achieve, especially in forested or mountainous areas.
-Cost reduction — fewer field staff and less time are required compared to ground surveys or manned aircraft.
Disadvantages:
-Increased sensor altitude — the sensor operates further above the ground than in terrestrial surveys, which naturally attenuates and smooths weak, localized anomalies.
-Limited flight time — batteries require frequent replacement or recharging.
-Sensitivity to weather — strong winds reduce flight stability and data quality.
-Regulatory restrictions — UAV flights are subject to strict national regulations in many countries.