Pricing & Scoping
Why don't you publish prices?▾
Every project has different site sizes, sensor requirements, deliverable formats, and timelines. A flat rate would either overcharge small jobs or underprice complex ones. We scope every project individually so you pay for exactly what your job needs — nothing more.
How quickly can you turn around a quote?▾
Most projects are quoted within one business day. For larger or more complex jobs we may need a brief call first — but we'll always tell you upfront.
What's included in a standard quote?▾
Every quote includes flight operations, data processing, deliverable files in your requested formats, and a project report. Mobilization costs and rush fees are always broken out separately so you can see exactly what you're paying for.
Do you require a deposit?▾
For most projects yes — a 50% deposit is required to schedule. The remaining 50% is due on delivery. For ongoing or repeat clients we can arrange alternative payment terms.
Are you FAA certified?▾
Yes. All Northern Drone pilots hold FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificates and carry $2M+ in liability insurance. We handle all airspace authorizations including LAANC and waivers for controlled airspace.
What happens if weather cancels a flight?▾
We monitor conditions closely and reschedule at no additional cost if weather prevents safe operations. For thermal and LiDAR work we require specific conditions — we'd rather wait for good data than fly in marginal conditions.
Do you travel to remote sites?▾
Yes — we operate nationally and travel to your site regardless of location. Mobilization costs for remote sites are included in your quote upfront.
Can you fly in restricted airspace?▾
We are authorized to operate in many types of controlled airspace through LAANC and FAA waivers. We assess airspace requirements during the scoping process and handle all authorizations as part of the project.
Data & Deliverables
How long does data processing take?▾
Standard turnaround is 72 hours from flight completion. Rush processing (36 hours) is available for an additional fee. Complex LiDAR classification or multi-flight projects may take longer — we'll confirm timeline in your quote.
What file formats do you deliver?▾
We deliver in whatever format your workflow requires — LAS/LAZ point clouds, GeoTIFF orthomosaics, DEM/DTM rasters, DXF/DWG for CAD, Shapefile or GeoJSON for GIS, and PDF reports. Just tell us what you need.
How accurate is your LiDAR data?▾
Our LiDAR surveys achieve 4–5cm vertical accuracy using DJI L-series sensors with RTK positioning. Ground control points can be used to achieve higher accuracy for survey-grade requirements.
Do you provide IEC 62446-3 compliant solar reports?▾
Yes. Our solar thermal inspections are conducted in compliance with IEC 62446-3. We document irradiance levels, wind conditions, and time-of-day for every inspection and include this in the delivered report.
Do you sign NDAs or work under client confidentiality agreements?▾
Absolutely. We regularly work under NDA for utility companies, mining operations, and construction clients. Just include your requirements in the project brief and we'll sign before any site work begins.
Can you coordinate with our engineering or GIS team directly?▾
Yes — we're used to working alongside engineering firms, GIS analysts, and environmental consultants. We can deliver data in formats compatible with your existing workflows and coordinate directly with your technical team.
Do you offer repeat or retainer pricing for ongoing clients?▾
Yes. For clients with regular survey needs — annual vegetation management flights, quarterly solar inspections, seasonal ag surveys — we offer preferential pricing and priority scheduling. Get in touch to discuss.