If you look up at the sky in a public park or a beach today, there is a good chance you will spot a small, buzzing object hovering overhead. We have become accustomed to seeing drones capturing wedding footage or racing through obstacle courses, but these devices are much more than just high-tech toys.
Drones have evolved from cumbersome military tools into sophisticated machines that are reshaping industries, saving lives, and even delivering our packages. However, the history behind these flying robots is likely far older—and stranger—than you realize. From their unexpected inventor to the sheer manpower once required to keep them airborne, the story of the drone is full of surprises.
Whether you are a tech enthusiast or simply curious about that buzzing noise in the sky, here are 15 facts about the history and utility of drones that might just change how you look at them.
The Surprising History of Drones
Most people assume drones are a product of the 21st century, or perhaps the late 20th century. While modern iterations are new, the concept of a remotely piloted vehicle goes back over a hundred years.
1. Nikola Tesla created the first “drone” ancestor
The drone as we know it today is often attributed to Israeli engineer Abraham Karem, who created his version in 1977.
However, the technology has roots that dig much deeper. In 1898—a full 16 years before World War I—famed inventor Nikola Tesla developed a miniature boat that used radio waves to control its movement.
Functioning without any wires or cables, Tesla’s invention was the grandfather of modern unmanned vehicles.
Tesla hoped his invention would eventually allow for communication with inaccessible regions and even transform warfare by introducing remotely controlled robots to the battlefield.
2. The early versions were logistical nightmares
We are used to carrying a drone in a backpack and launching it within minutes. It wasn’t always this easy. In the early days of drone development, operating a single unit was a massive logistical undertaking.
It used to take a team of at least 30 people to execute a single mission. This massive crew included pilots, technicians, communication operators, and security specialists, all working in tandem just to keep the aircraft functioning and the mission on track.
3. Abraham Karem revolutionized the design
As mentioned, the drone in its modern, recognizable form owes its existence to Abraham (Abe) Karem. In 1977, this aerospace engineer began refining the technology, moving away from the clunky, resource-heavy models of the past toward the streamlined, efficient systems we see today. His work paved the way for drones to become practical for widespread use.
How Drones Are Categorized and Regulated
Not all drones are created equal. They vary wildly in shape, size, and capability, and because they share airspace with manned aircraft, they are subject to strict rules.
4. There are three main types of drones
While they might all look similar from a distance, drones generally fall into three specific categories based on their design and flight capabilities:
- Single-Rotor Drones: These look like miniature helicopters and are typically designed to carry heavier payloads.
- Multi-Rotor Drones: These are the most popular consumer models (like quadcopters). They offer excellent stability and are generally safer and easier to fly.
- Fixed-Wing Drones: These look like standard airplanes. They use wings for lift rather than rotors, making them highly efficient for long-duration flights, such as military surveillance.
5. You can’t fly just anywhere
The sky isn’t a free-for-all. There are specific “restricted flight zones” where drone operation is either limited or strictly prohibited. These geographical areas usually include airports, military bases, government buildings, and critical infrastructure.
These restrictions are in place to prevent collisions with manned aircraft, protect national security, and ensure privacy.
6. You often need a license to fly
Because piloting a drone involves navigating airspace, it requires a specific set of skills. Operators often need to undergo training that covers aeronautical fundamentals, safety protocols, and legislation.
This training ensures pilots understand flight techniques, camera configuration, and how to inspect their equipment properly.
7. Authorization is mandatory
In many jurisdictions, you cannot simply buy a drone and fly it commercially without paperwork. For example, in Brazil, operators need authorization from agencies like ANAC (National Civil Aviation Agency) and DECEA (Department of Airspace Control).
Regardless of the drone’s weight or purpose, operators must register their equipment and request flight authorization to ensure the skies remain safe for everyone.
Transforming Industries
Drones are doing some of the heavy lifting—and dangerous work—that humans used to do. This shift is saving companies money and keeping workers safer.
8. They are slashing construction costs
The construction industry has embraced drone technology to reduce expenses and improve safety. Drones provide agility in site inspection, reducing the time teams need to spend walking the ground.
They allow for early detection of structural problems, preventing costly corrections later. Furthermore, drones can perform topographic mapping with incredible speed and precision, providing specialized data that optimizes project planning.
9. They are revolutionizing agriculture
Farming is becoming high-tech thanks to these flying helpers. Drones monitor crop health, identify pests and diseases, and apply agricultural defenses with pinpoint accuracy.
Beyond just looking at crops, they generate vegetation index maps and identify irregularities in the fields. This data helps farmers make precise decisions, reducing crop loss and improving environmental sustainability by minimizing chemical use.
10. Amazon is betting on drone delivery
It sounds like science fiction, but it is becoming reality. Retail giants like Amazon are actively utilizing drones to deliver packages.
This service is particularly useful for reaching remote or difficult-to-access areas, speeding up delivery times, and reducing the reliance on traditional delivery trucks.
11. They inspect wind turbines
Maintaining wind turbines is a dangerous and difficult job, often requiring technicians to scale massive heights. Drones are now used to inspect these turbines for damage or wear and tear.
They can detect problems early, providing the maintenance team with a necessary diagnosis without putting a human life at risk until the actual repair is needed.
Saving Lives and the Planet
Perhaps the most impactful use of drones is in humanitarian and environmental efforts.
12. Military and strategic defense
This is the most well-known use case. Unmanned aerial systems are fundamental to modern military operations, ranging from the conflict in Ukraine to surveillance missions globally. They allow for information gathering and area monitoring with reduced risk to human operators.
13. Humanitarian aid and healthcare
Drones are becoming heroes in disaster zones. When natural disasters strike and roads are destroyed, drones can fly over obstacles to deliver thermal blankets, raincoats, and food.
They are also used to transport medical supplies. Drones can fly blood samples and medications between hospitals and labs, accelerating diagnoses and avoiding traffic. They have even been used to support lifeguards in saving drowning victims.
14. Protecting wildlife
Conservationists are using drones to monitor wildlife populations in remote areas. Unlike helicopters, which are loud and stressful for animals, drones are much less intrusive.
They allow researchers to collect data on species distribution and behavior, helping to develop strategies to protect endangered animals and combat illegal poaching.
Whether it is protecting sharks in Costa Rica or monitoring herds on the savannah, drones are vital tools for biodiversity.
15. Search and rescue operations
When hikers go missing or disasters trap people in debris, time is of the essence. Drones equipped with thermal cameras and night vision sensors can identify the heat signatures of victims in areas that are difficult for humans or dogs to reach. This technology speeds up the rescue process, significantly increasing the chances of survival.
Capturing the Moment
16. The ultimate wedding photographer
Finally, we can’t ignore the most common way people encounter drones: celebrations. Drones have changed how we document personal history.
They are frequently used to record weddings, birthdays, and other ceremonies, providing a cinematic, bird’s-eye perspective that traditional photography simply cannot match.
The Sky is Not the Limit!
From Nikola Tesla’s radio-controlled boat to the high-tech quadcopters delivering blood to remote hospitals, the evolution of drone technology has been rapid and remarkable. They have transitioned from requiring a 30-person crew to fitting in the palm of a hand.
As regulations adapt and technology improves, we can expect drones to become even more integrated into our daily lives. Whether they are building our skyscrapers, growing our food, or saving our wildlife, these flying robots are here to stay!