Drones: Innovation in the vineyards

Drones in viticulture

Image-taking drone

Drones are establishing themselves as high-tech tools in viticulture, offering innovative possibilities for monitoring, analysing and intervening in vineyard plots. There are two main categories of drone used in viticulture:

Image-taking drones and on-board sensors : dedicated to analysing and mapping vineyards (see Connected sensors/tools category)
Spraying drones: designed for the targeted application of plant protection products.

Although spraying drones are not yet authorised in France, they are already being used in other countries such as Switzerland, demonstrating their potential in terms of efficiency and reducing inputs.

Technical specifications

Weight
Energy used
Carrying capacity
Width

Main applications

Image capture drones

equipped with high-resolution cameras and multi-spectral sensors, these devices can collect crucial data on the condition of vines, such as plant vigour, areas of water stress and emerging diseases.

With just a few overflights, winegrowers can obtain detailed maps that facilitate more precise plot management, reducing the use of inputs while increasing the quality and yield of harvests.
What's more, this technology offers considerable time savings and unrivalled accuracy compared with traditional inspection methods, making drones an essential tool for sustainable, high-performance viticulture.

Image capture drone

Spraying drone

Spraying drones

These drones, equipped with product application systems, offer an alternative solution for treating plots of land:

Targeted spraying: ideal for areas that are difficult to access or on sloping ground.
Inaccessible in poorly drained soil: ideal for treating plots following poorly drained rain or waterlogged soil.
Greater precision : reduced inputs and fewer losses thanks to uniform application.

Although their use is not yet authorised in France for regulatory reasons, these drones are used in countries such as Switzerland, where they are proving their effectiveness in specific contexts.

Use and settings

Flight planning

Drones must be programmed to :

Cover the plots uniformly.
Respect the heights and trajectories required for accurate data acquisition.

Maintenance and updating

Regular maintenance ensures the reliability of the drones:

Checking the sensors and battery before each flight.
Software updates to optimise performance and ensure regulatory compliance.

Safety and regulations

The use of drones is governed by strict regulations. In France:

Spraying drones are not currently authorised.
Specific authorisations are required for professional flights (zones, heights, flight plans).

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