Unmanned aircraft systems—aka drones—have taken off in the civilian world. Nearly $17 million worth of drones were bought on eBay last year. Drones have come dangerously close to passenger aircraft, so it's no wonder that the Federal Aviation Administration fears disaster—thousands of tiny helicopters with spinning rotors and cameras are flying through the air.
Despite the concerns, however, the FAA knows that drones will become a vital part of the commercial environment. Congress demanded that the FAA come up with rules safely integrating commercial drones into civil airspace, and on Feb. 15, the FAA released those proposed rules. Construction stands to benefit from drones as much as any industry. They save money and promote job safety. Drones with cameras can inspect high elevations or projects built on difficult terrain without erecting scaffolding. Drones can detect damage and monitor building progress. Drones can provide onsite security systems.