ABSTRACT
This chapter presents an overview of current drone technology and future developments and the exploration of some existing and proposed applications. The chapter looks at the issues facing successful implementation of the use of drones for these applications, and the problems that need to be overcome to allow this technology to become mainstream. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, although drone technology was already well-established with many professional applications worldwide there were new ideas emerging for their use in a wider range of imaging and non-imaging applications. Two new streams of application have been pursued: delivering essential goods and services, and battling the spread of coronavirus. The ability to enhance the collection of up-to-date data using drones will provide a basis for more detailed information that can help emergency response in the future. However, significant developments in the technology are still needed to overcome some of the public concerns and to allow drone applications to reach their full potential.
