Skip to main content

Michael Baker receives authority to fly unmanned aerial systems

US-based engineering firm Michael Baker International has received certification from the Federal Aviation Administration to operate several types of fixed-wing and vertical take-off and landing unmanned aircraft systems. The company said its UAS can capture robust, real-time aerial photographs and video as well as conduct aerial mapping for surveys or site inspections. "Integrating our FAA-certified unmanned aircraft program with our other advanced data collection capabilities allows us to take data
August 17, 2015 Read time: 2 mins
US-based engineering firm Michael Baker International has received certification from the 2423 Federal Aviation Administration to operate several types of fixed-wing and vertical take-off and landing unmanned aircraft systems.

The company said its UAS can capture robust, real-time aerial photographs and video as well as conduct aerial mapping for surveys or site inspections.

"Integrating our FAA-certified unmanned aircraft program with our other advanced data collection capabilities allows us to take data collection to an entirely new level for our clients,” said Robert Hanson, senior vice president and the firm's Geospatial Practice leader.

"Our UAS capability builds upon the company's full continuum of innovative solutions that immediately enhance timeframes for planning and executing projects in surface transportation, utilities infrastructure, land development, pipelines and many other markets."

Vehicle operators can adjust still and video cameras on the aircraft to capture images at almost any angle. This enhances the quality of data captured from the same geographic location at different points in time.

According to the company, clients need fewer additional studies or surveys of a project because the UAS data provides a much fuller picture of a site or a building.

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • Driving recycling, unlocking the value of UK roads
    May 16, 2016
    Concerned about the risk of material failure, many local authorities and network operators have been reluctant to incorporate high recycled content asphalt into the surface course of UK roads. David Smith, development director at FM Conway, explained why asphalt recycling is crucial to maximising the value of Britain’s largely untapped road asset.
  • Engine innovation for diesels and electrics
    October 2, 2018
    Engine firms continue to develop new power solutions and refine existing technologies - Mike Woof writes There has been strong pressure against internal combustion engines worldwide, with the scandal over the emissions from diesel powered private cars has strengthening opinion against these engines. Diesel engine firms are taking the long view by offering future power options such as alternative fuels and electric systems. The engine builders are also hard at work ensuring that power units for the indust
  • A history lesson in private public partnerships
    February 15, 2012
    Michel Démarre gives some historical insights into public-private partnerships conceived to implement urban infrastructure projects, a concept that surprisingly dates back to as early as the 13th century!
  • Advanced machine control solutions
    February 15, 2012
    Trimble has developed an array of smart solutions for GPS machine control applications, which can now be installed on a wide variety of machines from different manufacturers. The company has long had a close relationship with Caterpillar but can also install units on machines from a range of manufacturers including Case, John Deere, Komatsu, Liebherr, Roadtec and Volvo. The firm's range has developed beyond just the GPS hardware though and includes sophisticated software, which can be loaded onto a hand-hel