What Is a Drone Show?

How Do Drone Shows Work?

If drone shows look complicated, you’re on the right path. These complex aerial displays take lots of time and planning to pull off. However, you have to think beyond the traditional one pilot, one drone setup. (Can you imagine 50+ drone pilots pulling that off with razor sharp precision?) The truth is, these drones are all controlled by a central computer system. The choreography and design is determined by a team of skilled designers. After that, software engineers write the code to create a predetermined flight path for each drone during the entirety of the show, including color commands, speed, and more. These tiny drones are mounted with sensors and cameras to prevent midair crashes and send data back to the controller to make adjustments as needed.

How Much Does a Drone Show Cost?

Sounds expensive? It certainly can be. On the low end, you can expect to spend as much as $15,000 to $20,000 for a basic drone show with a small number of drones and simple design. However, the most intricate aerial displays feature hundreds of drones with complex choreography and design and can cost upwards of $250,000 or more. As of 2024, the world record for the most airborne drones during a show was achieved by UVify in South Korea where they put on a show with 5,293 drones. (We’re not sure how much that cost, but it was definitely a lot.) 

What Drones Are Used for Light Shows?

You won’t be able to use just any drone if you want to start designing drone shows. Special drone show drones are smaller quadcopters that are programmable and feature LED lights to illuminate in the sky. These specialty drones also must have an average flight time of at least 20 minutes to stay airborne for the duration of the show. There is also specialty software and licensing that must be purchased prior to creating your own show. Lastly, you will need a skilled animation team to augment the software and create a 3D design of the show. There are some all-in-one solutions that feature the software, hardware, and training involved to get a drone show business off the ground. 

Drone Fireworks Shows Are Better for the Environment

Fireworks have been used for thousands of years as a way to celebrate holidays and occasions. While there is something undeniably exciting about a grand firework show, they are not great for the environment. The use of drones and the rising popularity of drone shows has been a major win for the environment. (We think they look way cooler, too.) Below are some of the negative impacts of large-scale firework displays. 

Air Pollution

The combustion of fireworks releases heavy metals, smoke, and particles into the atmosphere that we breathe. While it can dissipate within a day or so, breathing it in can be harmful for humans and wildlife in the area. Drones produce no air pollution during flight or any harmful exhaust. 

Water & Land Pollution

What goes up must come down. Expended fireworks that are launched or detonated are often left behind by crews and can cause a serious amount of litter and trash if not properly cleaned up. This can have a negative effect on local wildlife and contributes to an ongoing global trash problem. When a drone show is over, all of the drones are reused and recovered and leave nothing behind for clean up.

Fire

Especially in dry or desert climates, fireworks have the potential to ignite wildfires that can spread and cause damage to property, ecosystems, and even create a life-threatening situation for local communities. In 2018 alone, it was reported that fireworks caused 19,500 fires and resulted in 46 civilian injuries and $105 million in property damage. There is little to no risk of a drone crash resulting in a fire. 

Noise Pollution

While not as serious as the other issues, fireworks are extraordinarily loud. This can cause a great deal of discomfort for veterans with PTSD, children with auditory issues, or household pets. Drone shows are extremely quiet and can be enjoyed by everyone without any need for hearing protection. 

Final Thoughts on Drone Shows

Although drones shows can be more expensive and certainly more complex than firework displays, they are much more environmentally friendly. Even better, the possibilities with drones far exceed even the most elaborate firework shows. We are excited to see drones playing a bigger role in the celebrations and holiday events and hope that more organizers opt to use drones for their future events. 

Explore a Partnership With Pelican Drones

Pelican Drones is the premier provider of drone services, videography, and 360 imaging in Pensacola, Florida, and Alabama. To learn more about the services we offer and how we can support you on your next project, visit our About Us page or call (850) 359-2602 today to learn more!