Chapter 9 - Challenges and opportunities for cost-effective use of unmanned aerial system in agriculture

Abstract

The cost of using unmanned aerial systems (UASs) and the expected economic benefits is the most crucial aspect manifesting their widescale adoption in agriculture. This chapter analyzes the main cost components of utilizing a UAS facility in agriculture addressing its direct variable and fixed costs associated with ownership, labor energy, etc., as also indirect costs related to transportation, data handling and analyzing, and other. It continues by discussing the limitations and challenges for achieving efficient and cost-effective field UAS operations, also making comparisons to the available alternatives like satellite observations and traditional machinery material applications. The chapter ends by analyzing the current state and future perspectives of UASs and how they are expected to alter the agricultural sector in the near future.