Abstract
Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), commonly known as “drones”, are very promising in monitoring application. Their flexibility, ease of operation and relative low-cost make them the best candidates for monitoring activity in precision farming, where prompt reactions to plant disease, lack of plants nutrients and environmental changes are the focal point to farm efficiency and productivity.
In this paper, we shown the results of an analysis of monitoring performances and cost estimation of an Unmanned Aerial Systems, in terms of monitored surface (ha/day) and cost management (€/ha). This analysis takes into account the Italian regulatory prescriptions and the investigation of two different kind of commercial sensors. Furthermore, results of preliminary tests are shown to validate the monitoring performances and evaluate the repeatability of the flight pattern and sensor measurements.