Using unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to inspect infrastructure is becoming more widespread. TRB hosted a webinar on Wednesday, July 28, 2021 from 1:00-3:00 PM Eastern that discussed how UAS technology can be used as a tool to support bridge inspections. Presenters explored how utilizing this technology can save time, reduce costs, and improve safety margins. They presented case studies from various transportation agencies that explore UAS applications for bridge inspections.

This webinar was organized by the TRB Standing Technical Committee on Testing and Evaluation of Transportation Structures.

The slides are linked in the meeting materials below. Click here to view the recording.

Webinar agenda and presenters

1. Case study from the Federal Highway Administration: Hoda Azari, Federal Highway Administration
2. Case study from Minnesota Department of Transportation: Jennifer Wells, Minnesota DOT
3. Case study from Michigan Department of Transportation: Steven Cook, Michigan DOT
4. Case study from Port Authority of New York and New Jersey: Steve Vecchione, Port Authority of New York and New Jersey
5. Question and answer session: Sreenivas Alampalli, Stantec

The first 90 minutes of the webinar will be for presentations and the final 30 minutes will be reserved for audience questions.

Learning Objectives

At the end of this webinar, participants will be able to:

1. Describe ways transportation agencies leverage UAS technology to supplement bridge inspections
2. Identify how UAS technology reduces time and costs and increases safety

Professional Development Hours

Professional Development Hours (PDHs) earned on completion of this program were reported to the Registered Continuing Education Program (RCEP). Certificates of Completion are issued to all participants via the RCEP.net online system. Complaints about registered providers may be addressed to RCEP, 1015 15th Street, NW, 8th Fl., Washington, DC, 20005.