Application of drones in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry

The adoption of commercial drones in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry is rela-tively rapid, with the industry projected as the second-largest market for drones in 2020. However, holistic detail of the trends of drone application in the industry remains sketchy. This study combines science mapping and market surveys to review drone use within the AEC industry. With 128 articles retrieved from the Scopus database, this paper identified the research outlets and universities that influence drone research in the AEC industry. The study highlights that research directions have focused on five areas, including training aid. The study provides information on different types of drones that can be adopted in the AEC industry and draws attention to the need for more research on human factors related to drone safety and the practicality of using drones for total quality management.