CSX Drone Program Expands Across More Than Eight Departments

The CSX drone program grew from its first fixed-wing unit into a network-wide capability. Also, it now supports more than eight departments across the Class I railroad. In addition, CSX announced that expansion last week, as reported by Progressive Railroading.

How the CSX drone program grew?

According to a CSX press release, the program began in 2018. Meanwhile, CSX now operates more than 250 drones. Also, it has trained more than 350 Federal Aviation Administration Part 107-certified pilots. Separately, drones now support several key business functions. For example, CSX police use them for operational needs. Meanwhile, bridge inspectors rely on them for drone infrastructure inspections. Those areas can be difficult or risky to access.

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GIS services, mapping and disaster response

Within CSX’s GIS services, drones are used for mapping and aerial surveys. In addition, they are used for rapid response after natural disasters affect the network. Also, company officials said the aircraft provide high-quality, real-time data. That helps teams assess conditions faster. It also helps them make more informed decisions. Still, the program supports the company’s safety focus. It reduces the need for employees to enter hazardous environments or work at heights.

“At the end of the day, anytime we can help mitigate risk and assist employees in making safer decisions, we look to technology to help,” said Patrick Barnett, technical director of CSX’s GIS services.

Meanwhile, CSX also created a video explaining how the drone program has evolved.

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