Drone Aircraft Inspections

Drone-based aircraft inspection uses autonomous systems to navigate around an aircraft, avoid contact, capture detailed imagery, and help maintenance teams identify and measure exterior defects.

Japan Airlines and French drone specialist Donecle are testing the Iris GVI system in Japanese hangars, comparing its imagery with conventional visual inspections and involving technicians in reviewing the results. The approach connects automation with maintenance quality, compliance, worker safety, and potential applications such as lightning-strike checks and paint monitoring.