Flying drones vs. rolling drones: Which solution for your inspections?

Drones, an innovative solution for inspections 

Drones have become essential for inspections, particularly in confined environments where human access is difficult or even dangerous. Whether inspecting industrial infrastructure, pipelines or confined spaces, these devices can improve safety and efficiency. However, with so many different types of drone available, it's not always easy to choose the best solution.

Flying and rolling drones represent two types of technology with distinct characteristics, adapted to specific missions. In this article, we will compare these two options to guide you towards the ideal solution for your inspection needs.

A flying drone for inspections at height and with difficult access 

Manoeuvrability in confined spaces 

Flying drones stand out for their agility and ability to operate in three‑dimensional environments. They can reach areas that are difficult to access, such as tanks or chimneys, where their flight capacity means they can inspect vertical surfaces or spaces at height. Their manoeuvrability means they can avoid obstacles while capturing images from several angles.

Limited autonomy and sensitivity to environmental conditions 

Autonomy is often one of the main challenges for flying drones, with flight times generally limited to 10 or 15 minutes. This can limit the capacity for continuous inspection, particularly for long missions. Operators have to schedule breaks to replace or recharge batteries, extending the overall time taken.

In some environments, the presence of dust or airborne particles can affect drone stability. These factors must be taken into account during inspections. However, flying drones are well suited to these situations, particularly in confined environments. Thanks to their advanced technology, they can quickly adjust to variations in air currents and particles, enabling them to maintain a high degree of stability. This adaptability makes them particularly effective when working in complex environments.
 

On‑board sensors and cameras for precise inspection 

Flying drones are often equipped with high‑resolution sensors and cameras, up to 4K. These devices make it possible to obtain detailed images and videos, often in real time, making it easier to identify structural defects such as cracks or signs of corrosion. Optical stabilisation is an essential feature in confined spaces
confined spaces, where the absence of GPS means that compensation is needed to ensure accurate data readings.

A rolling drone for horizontal and ground environments 

Obstacle clearance and stability

Rolling UAVs, designed to travel on the ground, are particularly robust and stable in complex or damaged environments. They can negotiate obstacles on the ground, such as debris or uneven surfaces, and adapt to narrow spaces such as tunnels, ducts or sewers.
Their stability and ability to maintain a fixed position on the ground enable them to carry out precise inspections in environments where flying drones would have difficulty stabilising.

Extended autonomy for long inspections 

Unlike flying drones, rolling drones have a longer autonomy, capable of operating for several hours without interruption. This makes them an ideal solution for extended inspections without having to stop frequently to recharge the batteries. Their ability to accurately measure the distance travelled, thanks to built‑in sensors, is also an advantage in environments such as pipelines, where precision is essential.

Sensors and close‑up vision 

Like flying drones, rolling drones are also equipped with high‑definition cameras and sensors for precise data collection. However, their positioning on the ground enables them to capture details closer to the surfaces being inspected, which is particularly useful for examining defects or anomalies at close range. What's more, they are often equipped with additional sensors, such as gas detectors, which are essential in hazardous or enclosed environments.

Which solution should you choose for your inspection? 

Advantages of flying drones 

Flying drones are particularly well suited to inspections requiring access at height, such as silos or ventilation ducts. Their ability to fly in complex environments means that they can inspect vertical or hard‑to‑reach areas, giving you an overall view of the infrastructure. What's more, they are ideal for missions where flexibility and speed of execution are priorities.

Advantages of rolling drones 

Mobile drones are better suited to inspections on the ground or in horizontal environments such as sewer systems or pipes. Their stability on the ground means they can carry out extended missions without interruption, and their robustness means they can navigate cluttered or damaged environments without difficulty.

They are also better suited to missions requiring close inspection, where their positioning on the ground enables them to detect structural defects more accurately. Their ability to operate for several hours without interruption is a major asset for complex environments requiring close attention to detail.

Finding the best solution for your inspection 

The choice between a flying drone and a rolling drone depends on a number of factors, including the type of environment to be inspected, the duration of the mission and potential obstacles. For inspections requiring great flexibility and access at height, flying drones are the best option. On the other hand, for ground‑based or confined environments, where stability and autonomy are a priority, rolling drones offer a more reliable and efficient solution.


In all cases, prior assessment of the specific needs of each inspection is crucial to choosing the most suitable solution. Thanks to technological advances, flying and rolling drones are now making it possible to carry out safer, faster and more accurate inspections, while reducing the risks for operators.