About the Drone Program

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS, or “drones”)

The MassDOT Aeronautics Division Drone Program uses Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS, or drones) to further the work to support state and local agencies, municipalities, and quasi-governmental entities, primarily working with MassDOT and the MBTA.

The Drone Program provides services such as assessing and inspecting critical state infrastructure, including:

  • roads
  • bridges
  • airports
  • rail and transit facilities

and supporting other activities with drones, such as:

  • documenting aircraft accidents
  • responding to natural disasters
  • monitoring construction projects
  • participating in state and local emergency drills

Informed by innovation, collaboration, and expertise, we aim to facilitate the adoption of drones by MassDOT and the MBTA across the Commonwealth in a safe, cost-effective, and secure manner. We partner with industry and academia to find novel ways to use technology to help solve transportation challenges.

Who we serve

We regularly provide drone flight services (including project planning and management as well as data analysis) to all divisions across MassDOT and the MBTA. In the appropriate circumstances, we are also available to provide such services to other state and local agencies, municipalities, and quasi-governmental entities.

To request our services, MassDOT divisions, MBTA departments, state and local agencies, municipalities, and quasi-governmental entities should view our Request Drone Services page for instructions on filling out a Drone Request Form.

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