Drone-Assisted Bridge Inspection of I-380 Over the Delaware and Lackawanna Railroad
BDI partnered with engineers to support a routine National Highway Institute (NHI) bridge inspection of the I-380 Bridge over the Delaware and Lackawanna Railroad near Scranton, Pennsylvania. The bridge’s complex geometry and challenging access conditions made traditional bridge inspection methods less efficient, creating an ideal application for drone-based bridge inspection technology.
To improve inspection coverage and safety, BDI deployed its Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) inspection services, providing access to hard-to-reach bridge components without the need for specialized access equipment. Using high-resolution cameras, the drone captured detailed photographs and video of critical structural elements, enabling a more comprehensive visual assessment while creating a permanent digital record of the bridge’s condition.
BDI supplied both the drone equipment and a licensed FAA-certified drone operator, while bridge inspectors monitored a live video feed in real time to direct the inspection and focus on areas of interest. This collaborative approach allowed inspectors to efficiently evaluate the structure, improve documentation quality, and reduce safety risks associated with conventional inspection methods.
By combining advanced drone bridge inspection services, high-resolution imagery, and real-time collaboration, BDI helped deliver a safer, faster, and more thorough inspection of this important transportation structure.
