Overseas equipment example. DJI Enterprise credits the footage to Glocomp Systems, Malaysia. NZ rules and conditions may differ.
Why we chose this video
In under a minute it shows the thermal inspection workflow: scan a large array, find heat anomalies on the thermal camera, then zoom in to check the panel visually. The same approach is used on roofs, buildings and electrical equipment.
New Zealand context
Inspection flights over property or near people need consent under Part 101, or the operator needs Part 102. (CAA) Large sites near aerodromes or in controlled airspace have extra conditions.
Key takeaways
- Faulty panels, cells and connections often run hotter than the rest. A thermal camera shows these as hot spots.
- Thermal results depend on conditions such as sunlight, time of day and wind. Ask how the operator plans the flight.
- A useful report pairs each thermal image with a visual image and its location.
- Most inspection flights sit under Part 101, with extra conditions near aerodromes and in controlled airspace. (CAA)
Takeaways written by DroneServices.nz and checked against the linked sources in September 2026. The video is produced by the publisher credited above. DroneServices.nz isn’t affiliated with it, and it isn’t New Zealand legal advice. Rules and prices change, so confirm with your operator.
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