What is a significant advantage of using UAS for aerial mapping?

Using Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for aerial mapping offers a significant advantage in terms of lower costs compared to manned aircraft. UAS typically operate with fewer overhead expenses since they do not require the same level of operational costs associated with piloted flights. Manned aircraft incur expenses such as fuel, maintenance, and the salary of pilots, which can be substantial. In contrast, UAS systems can often be operated with less expensive equipment, and the absence of a pilot on board further reduces costs related to licensing and insurance. This cost-effectiveness makes UAS a more accessible option for various mapping projects, particularly for smaller-scale operations or tasks that require frequent data collection.

While the other options present various benefits of using UAS, they do not highlight the financial aspect as significantly. For example, the reduced need for human pilots is indeed an advantage, as it enhances safety and operational flexibility; however, it is the cost savings that can often be more impactful for organizations considering their mapping options. Similarly, increased map dimensionality and faster ground survey execution might hold true in certain contexts but are not as universally acknowledged as a primary advantage when evaluating UAS for local mapping tasks compared to traditional manned aircraft.