Drone light shows have become increasingly popular as a unique and exciting way to entertain audiences in recent years. The ability to choreograph hundreds of drones to move in unison and create complex patterns in the night sky has captured the imagination of event planners, marketers, and spectators alike. However, one common question Electric Airshows are asked when planning a show is:

“How long does it take to set up a drone light show?”

The answer to this question varies depending on several factors, including the number of drones being used, the show’s complexity, the event’s location, and access to the site.

Generally, a drone light show, provided by one of our competitors, can take anywhere from half a day to several days to set up. One of the main factors that determine the length of time required to set up a Drone Light Show is the number of drones being used. Obviously, the more drones used in a show, the longer the setup time will be. For example, a show using 50 drones may take several hours to set up, while a show using 500 drones could take several days. Typically our competitors use drones that require a 1.5m spacing take off distance requiring large areas of open space to operate from.

At Electric Airshows, We Do Things Differently

We have kept abreast of the latest image processing technologies and working with our manufacturing partners have developed our V3 system which flies out of and lands back into the packing cases. This allows us to set up hundreds of drones in a matter of minutes. This thinking in-and-out of the box allows us to lead the field in drone light show technologies.

With regards the elements of the show however, the complexity of the show is also an important factor to consider. Whilst we do not arrive on site without a pre-programmed show, our clients rely on us to be able to make last minute changes to flight paths etc. through our advanced portable command centre.

Accessing the Location

The event’s location can also impact the setup time for a drone light show. If the event is taking place in a remote location with limited access, it may take longer to transport the drones and equipment to the site. Additionally, if the location has limited power or other resources, it may require additional time to set up generators or other equipment needed to power the drones.

We’re Experienced Drone Operators

The level of experience of the team setting up the show is also an important factor to consider. Electric Airshows have encountered and overcome the majority of the challenges that can arise during the setup process.

Despite the varying factors that impact setup time, we always follow some general steps when setting up a show. These steps include investing in the most advanced drones, programming said drones with the desired patterns and movements, setting up the ground control station, and performing test flights to ensure everything works correctly.

The Best Drones for the Job

Selecting the appropriate drones was, for Electric Airshows, the crucial first step in setting up a drone light show. Our team considered the drone’s flight time, payload capacity, and ability to communicate with the ground control station. Only after we had studied all the drones on the market did we make our selection and chose our partners at Damoda owing to their experience, technological know-how and being open to ideas and to working together.

Working with Damoda, our team are able to quickly program the show with the desired patterns and movements of each drone. This is done using bespoke software rather than some freeware as other companies opt to use. Setting up the ground control station is another critical step in the setup process. This involves setting up a secure area where the team can control the drones during the show. Electric Airshows ground control stations typically include the computer control console, communication equipment, weather forecasting and air traffic control infrastructure.

Putting Everything Together

Finally, the team will perform a test flight to ensure everything works correctly. Normally this will involve flying the drones in a test pattern to ensure that they are following the correct path and timing, as well as testing the extent of the flight pattern to be flown, double checking that the drones are flying within the sterile area away from the audience. If any issues are identified during the test flight, the Electric Airshows team will troubleshoot and make any necessary adjustments.

In conclusion, the length of time required to set up a drone light show depends on several factors, including the number of drones, how they are deployed, the complexity of the show, the location of the event, and the level of experience of the team setting up the show.

Electric Airshows offer the most advanced drone light show systems that are the fastest to deploy physically. As such, we can fly shows whilst our competitors still get their drones out of the box.