Safety and Security-Specific Application of Multiple Drone Sensors at Movement Areas of an Aerodrome

Abstract

Nowadays, the public service practice applicability of drones and remote sensing sensors is being explored in almost all industrial and military areas. In the present research, in collaboration with different universities, we investigate the applicability of drones in airport procedures, assessing the various potential applications. By exploiting the data from remote sensing sensors, we aim to develop methodologies that can assist airport operations, including managing the risk of wildlife threats to runway safety, infrastructure maintenance, and foreign object debris (FOD) detection. Drones equipped with remote sensing sensors provide valuable insight into surface diagnostics, helping to assess aprons, taxiways, and runways. In addition, drones can enhance airport security with effective surveillance and threat detection capabilities, as well as provide data to support existing air traffic control models and systems. In this paper, we aim to present our experience with the potential airport applications of UAV high-resolution RGB, thermal, and LiDAR sensors. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative methodologies, our research aims to revolutionize airport operations, safety, and security protocols, outlining a path toward a safer, more efficient airport ecosystem.