Frequently Asked Questions

LiDAR captures precise elevation and surface data using laser pulses, creating detailed point clouds for engineering and land development. Drone photography provides high-resolution visual imagery ideal for site overviews and documentation. At Back Forty Aerial Solutions, we use LiDAR when accuracy and terrain modeling are critical, and photography when visual context is the priority.

Drones are flown on a scheduled basis using consistent flight paths to document site changes over time. Visual records are delivered after each flight, allowing teams to compare progress across phases without frequent site visits. This approach supports reporting, milestone tracking, and decision-making throughout multi-phase projects.

A digital twin is a virtual 3D model created from LiDAR data that replicates a physical site or structure. It enables teams to visualize, measure, and analyze conditions remotely. Digital twins are particularly valuable in construction, engineering, and land development for planning and problem-solving without being onsite.

Thermal inspections are ideal when you need to identify heat loss, energy inefficiencies, or equipment issues not visible to the eye. They're non-invasive and enhance safety by reducing the need for manual access to difficult or hazardous areas. At Back Forty Aerial Solutions, we recommend thermal imaging when visual data alone won't reveal the full picture.

Orthomosaic maps provide accurate, georeferenced visuals stitched from multiple aerial images, offering a complete and measurable view of a site. They support environmental monitoring, change detection over time, and integrate seamlessly into professional mapping workflows. This method significantly reduces manual fieldwork while maintaining precision.

LiDAR produces high-accuracy elevation models and point clouds that rival traditional surveying methods, often with faster turnaround and lower cost. It's especially effective on large or difficult-to-access sites. At Back Forty Aerial Solutions, we use advanced sensors to ensure precision suitable for engineering and construction projects.

Yes, drones excel at documenting areas that are unsafe, overgrown, or physically inaccessible from the ground. This includes steep terrain, rooftops, large properties, and active construction zones. Professional flight planning ensures thorough coverage while maintaining safety and compliance.

The most common mistake is inconsistent documentation, which makes it difficult to compare progress over time. Using the same flight paths and schedule ensures accurate before-and-after analysis. At Back Forty Aerial Solutions, we establish repeatable workflows so teams can track milestones and site changes reliably throughout the project.

LiDAR performs reliably in most conditions, though heavy rain or dense fog can limit effective data capture. Columbia's climate allows for year-round operations with proper scheduling. At Back Forty Aerial Solutions, we plan flights around weather forecasts to ensure optimal data quality and minimize delays.

Flight time depends on site size, but data collection is typically completed in one session. Processing LiDAR data into a usable digital twin usually takes a few days to a week, depending on complexity. Clients receive point clouds and visualizations ready for engineering or planning workflows.

Orthomosaic maps are ideal for environmental monitoring, land assessment, change detection, and large-scale site documentation. They provide georeferenced imagery that integrates with GIS and CAD software. Projects requiring measurable, accurate visual records over time see the greatest value from this service.

Yes, all flights are conducted by FAA Part 107 certified pilots and follow strict compliance and safety practices. Operations are fully insured, and flight planning includes airspace checks and risk assessments. This ensures legal, safe, and professional service delivery across the Southeast.

Aerial LiDAR provides comprehensive baseline data that field crews can use to focus their ground work more efficiently. While field surveying delivers precise boundary markers and elevation certificates, LiDAR captures the broader terrain context and identifies areas needing detailed ground verification. At Back Forty Aerial Solutions, we deliver data that helps surveyors plan field visits strategically rather than covering every inch manually.

LiDAR can reduce field time by 60-80% on large sites by providing accurate topographic data before crews arrive. Surveyors receive point clouds showing terrain, vegetation, and structures, allowing them to focus ground work on critical measurements, property corners, and areas requiring legal certification. This approach cuts project timelines from weeks to days for comprehensive site documentation.