Aerial Survey Cost Estimator

Drone photogrammetry surveys cost $150-$500 per acre for large areas (500+ acres). For smaller sites (up to 10 acres), flat-rate pricing of $1,500-$3,000 is typical. Drone LiDAR surveys cost $150-$500 per acre depending on required point density and deliverables. Pricing varies by location, terrain complexity, and accuracy requirements.

Key pricing factors include: survey area size (smaller sites have higher per-acre costs), survey method (LiDAR costs more than photogrammetry), accuracy requirements (survey-grade RTK costs more than general mapping), terrain complexity (mountainous or densely vegetated sites require more flight time), deliverables requested (basic orthomosaic vs full topographic package), and project location (travel costs, permit requirements).

For areas larger than 5-10 acres, drone surveying is typically 50-70% less expensive than traditional ground surveying while delivering comparable or better accuracy (1-3 cm). The cost advantage increases with site size — a 100-acre drone survey might cost $5,000-$15,000 compared to $30,000-$80,000+ for traditional methods. For very small sites (under 2 acres), ground surveying may be more cost-effective.

Helicopter LiDAR surveys are quoted on a project basis due to the variables involved (flight hours, mobilization, sensor type, processing). Projects typically start at $15,000-$25,000 for small corridor surveys and can exceed $100,000 for large regional mapping projects. Per-mile corridor pricing and per-acre area pricing are available — contact us for a custom quote.

Standard survey pricing includes flight operations, data processing, and deliverable generation. Additional costs may apply for: ground control point (GCP) survey ($500-$2,000 depending on site), licensed surveyor certification (add-on), rush/emergency turnaround (1.25x-2x multiplier), travel to remote sites, and specialized deliverables beyond the standard package.