Cost Efficiency and Effectiveness of Drone Applications in Bridge Condition Monitoring

Bridges are an integral and important part of road networks, but monitoring their condition using traditional methods is expensive, dangerous, and laborious. This study examines the rapidly emerging field of drone-based transportation asset monitoring, focusing on analyzing the cost efficiency and effectiveness of drone applications in bridge condition monitoring. This research innovated a multi-dimensional framework that highlights the transformative role of drone technology in enhancing inspection accuracy, safety, and cost savings. Using statistical models and Monte Carlo simulations, the framework provides an extensive cost–benefit analysis to inform drone investment decisions. A case study demonstrates the utility of the framework in quantifying costs and benefits. Furthermore, a sensitivity analysis evaluates how variations in drone costs, driven by technological progress, can potentially influence adoption of the technology.