Drone Training and Education Services Market Expected to Reach $18 Billion by 2032—Allied Market Research

According to a new report published by Allied Market Research, titled, “Drone Training and Education Services Market," The drone training and education services market was valued at $0.91 billion in 2022, and is estimated to reach $18 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 34.9% from 2023 to 2032.

VR technology provides an immersive and realistic training environment. Drone operators can experience simulated flights in diverse scenarios, allowing them to practice maneuvers, navigate challenging landscapes, and respond to different conditions. VR simulations offer operators a risk-free environment to practice scenarios such as emergencies, challenging weather conditions, or complex maneuvers, eliminating the risk of actual drone damage. For instance, in July 2023, YoYo Interactive, a South Korean virtual reality solution company entered into collaboration with the Ulsan Fire Department in South Korea to develop a virtual training system that integrates drones into firefighting missions. 

Drones have become integral tools in firefighting operations in South Korea, particularly in challenging terrains such as mountainous areas, where their advanced aerial search functions aid in locating and rescuing individuals. Therefore, integration of virtual reality improves safety and provides a controlled setting for operators to build confidence and skills. The integration of AI provides real-time feedback during VR training sessions, with algorithms assessing an operator's performance and delivering immediate insights into areas that need improvement. This personalized feedback aids operators in identifying and correcting mistakes, accelerating the learning process.

In addition, AI algorithms analyze individual learning patterns, allowing training programs to adapt based on each operator's specific needs. Hence, this tailored methodology enhances the effectiveness of the educational journey by catering to individual strengths and weaknesses, a factor poised to propel market expansion. Fixed-wing drones, known as fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), are characterized by a stable, unchanging wing structure akin to conventional airplanes. Unlike multirotor drones like quadcopters or hexacopters, which depend on several propellers for lift and maneuvering, fixed-wing drones employ a robust wing design for both lift and aerodynamic stability. 

Fixed-wing drones operate with different principles compared to multirotor drones. Training services provide specialized knowledge, ensuring operators understand the unique characteristics, aerodynamics, and flight dynamics of fixed-wing UAVs. Fixed-wing drones are often used for large-scale mapping, surveying, and monitoring. Training services help operators optimize flight planning, including waypoint navigation, coverage patterns, and efficient data collection strategies. The growth of the global drone market, including increased adoption of fixed-wing drones, contributes to the demand for training services. As more industries recognize the benefits, there is a rise in need for skilled fixed-wing type drone operators, which is expected to drive the growth of the drone training and education services market.  

Multirotor drones are a type of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) characterized by multiple rotors, or propellers, for lift and maneuvering. Multirotor drones achieve lift through the rotation of several rotors arranged in a symmetrical configuration. Quadcopters, hexacopters, and octocopters, housing four, six, and eight rotors respectively, represent the most prevalent multirotor drone types. The growing integration of drones in diverse sectors like agriculture, construction, surveying, and public safety has generated a heightened demand for skilled operators.

Training services play a pivotal role in equipping individuals with the essential knowledge and skills for the efficient operation of multirotor drones. Multirotor drones, known for their versatility, are used in diverse industries, including aerial photography, videography, agriculture, inspections, and beyond. There is a growing demand for specialized training with the continual expansion of applications. Professionals and organizations are actively seeking training to stay aligned with the evolving trends, standards, and best practices in the expanding global drone industry.

Hybrid drones are unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that combine features of both fixed-wing and multirotor drones. These drones are designed to leverage the advantages of both configurations, offering increased versatility and efficiency in various applications.Hybrid drones possess the ability to perform vertical takeoff, negating the necessity for runways or specific launch infrastructure. This vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capability enables them to navigate and operate seamlessly in constrained spaces. These drones exhibit versatility, making them well-suited for a diverse array of mission profiles. There is an increasing demand for educational services to acquaint operators with the distinctive features and capabilities of these unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) as hybrid drone technology becomes prevalent.

Hybrid drones are used in sectors ranging from agriculture and infrastructure inspection to surveying and public safety. The growing integration of hybrid drones across diverse industries underscores the surged requirement for educational services. These services offer valuable perspectives on mission planning for hybrid drones, covering aspects like vertical takeoff, fixed-wing flight, and seamless transitions between modes. Enhanced mission planning contributes to improved efficiency and mission outcomes, which is expected to drive the growth of the drone training and education services industry.

Others include nano, micro and other drones. Nano and micro drones are compact and lightweight, often designed for indoor use or short-range outdoor flights. They are suitable for recreational purposes, education, and may have limited capabilities compared to larger drones.  Numerous training programs include the foundational aspects of UAV technology, regulations, flight operations, and safety.

These programs are generally designed to accommodate various drone types, from standard models to nano and micro drones. Participants gain insights into fundamental flight principles, legal obligations, and safety protocols. Certain providers extend specialized courses tailored for recreational and hobbyist drone operators. These courses typically delve into the essentials of drone piloting, offering guidance on the handling and operation of nano and micro drones for leisure activities

Impact of Russia-Ukraine war

The ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine have introduced a complex set of dynamics with potential repercussions across various sectors, including the emerging domain of drone training and education services. In conflict zones, there is an elevated risk of disruptions to regular business operations, which includes potential impacts on training programs. The security situation has the potential to influence the feasibility of conducting training sessions, possibly resulting in the closure or relocation of training facilities. The urgent need to swiftly adopt cutting-edge technologies, such as drones, during conflict situations might drive technological advancements. This, in turn, could create opportunities for distinct drone training programs focusing on the latest technologies and applications arising from innovations influenced by conflict dynamics.

KEY FINDINGS OF THE STUDY

• By drone type, the hybrid segment is anticipated to exhibit significant growth in the near future.
• By industry, the construction segment is anticipated to exhibit significant growth in the near future.
• By type, the hybrid training segment is anticipated to exhibit significant growth in the near future.
• By region, Asia-Pacific is anticipated to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period.

Key players operating in the global drone training and education services market include UAV Coach, Global Drone Solutions, Drone Destination, Dart Drones LLC, heliguy, AltexAcademy, Drone Training Ltd, SkyOp LLC, DroneU, and Draganfly Inc. The companies are adopting strategies such as contract, product launch, expansion, and others to improve their market positioning.