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Light show drones for sale: where (and how) to buy the best drones for your drone light show

Posted by Dronerator

Drones have revolutionized nighttime entertainment, with drone light shows creating spectacular displays at theme parks, corporate functions and holiday celebrations. It’s a huge business opportunity — and many drone light show companies are springing up. So if you’re looking for light show drones for sale to launch your own business, which should you use?

By and large, UVify is the industry leader, trusted by top companies like Pixis Drones and Sky Elements which was a finalist on America’s Got Talent. UVify’s flagship model, the IFO, is the gold standard for drone light shows. There’s even the optional IFO-P pyro module that allows you to launch fireworks from it. UVify sells their IFO drones for just over $1,500 per unit.

Other companies have light show drones for sale for even less money, particularly if you’re willing to do some DIY (as is the case with the Drone Dojo light show kit).

So which light show drones should you buy? In some ways, there’s no best light show drone. Businesses putting on a professional-grade display need someone different than, say, a college class experimenting with light choreography. Given that, buying the right light show drone is key.

Generally speaking, UVify’s IFO drones are the best for professional light shows, offering unmatched reliability and cutting-edge features. But for hobbyists or smaller-scale projects, there are also budget-friendly options (as long as you realize that you get what you pay for). Here’s everything you need to know about the best light show drones for sale and where to buy them.

The ultimate guide to light show drones

Best overall light show drone for sale: UVify IFO Drones

Photo of a Guinness World Record drone show courtesy of Uvify.

Price: $1,585 per drone

Where to buy: UVify.

Mention UVify promo code DGIFO to your UVify sales representative to receive a 5% discount plus an additional free battery and set of high-performance props per IFO. 

If you’re looking for a professional-grade solution, UVify’s IFO drones are the gold standard. These are the same drones used by Sky Elements, the drone team that won America’s Got Talent. Built in South Korea, the IFO drones are designed for reliability and precision, making them ideal for large-scale events and corporate showcases.

At $1,585 per drone (plus optional pyro costs), this is an investment meant for professionals or serious enthusiasts. But if you need a reliable, industry-leading drone, the UVify IFO is worth it.

Key UVify IFO drone features

  • Durable and weather-resistant: With a waterproof rating of IP43, the IFO can handle light rain or wind up to 20 m/s (45 mph)—perfect for outdoor events.
  • Turnkey solution: Your purchase includes all hardware, software and 24/7 support. Plus, you get access to UVify’s FAB rental network, which can offset costs.
  • Made in South Korea: UVify is a U.S. company that makes its drones in South Korea. That’s generally a plus, particularly given recent talks by certain U.S. politicians seeking to ban Chinese-made drones.
  • Compact size: The IFO drones weigh just 682 grams and their dimensions are 275x275x120 mm. That’s somewhat similar in size to the DJI Air 3S drone.
  • 20 minute shows: The IFO drone can fly for 26 minutes, though UVify recommends capping shows at 20 minus. That’s the same length as a standard Disney fireworks show, and should be sufficient for drone shows.

What about UVify Pyro drones to launch fireworks from drones?

Want to launch fireworks from your drone? UVify is a pioneer in making drones capable of launching fireworks, and the IFO was the first pyro drone to legally fly in the U.S.

To launch fireworks from your own light show drone, you’ll need UVify’s separate module that allows you to launch pyro to your drones. Called the IFO-P, you’ll owe $500 extra per module to deck out your drone with the pyro unit.

You’ll also have to account for the pyrotechnics themselves. Expect to spend $30-70 to purchase each gerb, which is a type of firework which produces a jet of sparks, usually lasting between 15 and 60 seconds. And though the fountain-style “gerb” fireworks are most commonly used on pyro today, UVify says it is testing other types of fireworks.

Luckily, you don’t need a module on every drone. According to UVify, drone shows that incorporate pyro on their drones typically only put pyro modules on between 40-60% of all drones in the show.

So how do firework drones work? You simply load the gerb(s) on your drone. The module has a separate firing system, which the pyro operator can then coordinate with the chief drone pilot to execute.

UVify has a proven track record in its pyro-enabled shows, due in part to their partnership with Cobra Firing Systems which ensures that safety and precision are never compromised. According to UVify, all shows to-date that use UVify pyro-equipped drones have a 100% success rate. For comparison, other companies have a success rate of only about 50%.

If you want to add pyro with your drone, keep in mind that you need a separate waiver to use pyro.

Order the UVify IFO today, and don’t forget to mention UVify promo code DGIFO to your UVify sales representative to receive a 5% discount plus an additional free battery and set of high-performance props per IFO. 

Runner-up alternative: Lumenier ARORA Light Show Drone

Price: $2,000 per drone

Where to buy: GetFPV

The Lumenier ARORA Light Show Drone is another professional-grade option that combines sleek design with cutting-edge features. Known for its advanced LED system and customizable choreography options, the ARORA is favored for its vibrant displays and smooth flight dynamics.

They’re high-quality drones, but their top selling point over UVify is that they’re made in America. Lumenier ARORA light show drones are fully built, test-flown and serviced by build technicians at the company’s Florida facility.

Key Lumenier ARORA Light Show Drone features

  • Dynamic light displays: The ARORA is equipped with high-powered RGB LEDs that create stunning visual effects. In fact, its LEDs are 6x brighter than what’s standard.
  • Advanced choreography tools: Lumenier provides proprietary software for designing intricate light shows, making it a good choice for creatives.
  • Reliable performance: Built with precision flight capabilities and durable components, the ARORA can handle outdoor events with ease.

Drawbacks — not dealbreakers

At ~$2,000 per drone, the ARORA is pricier than UVify’s IFO, and while it delivers stunning visuals, it lacks some modular features like pyro integration.

And here’s another reason to skip it. As of publication, it’s out of stock.

Best for schools and STEM programs: DroneBlocks Light Show Kit

DroneBlocks Light Show Kit
(Photo courtesy of DroneBlocks)

Price: $7,495 for a base kit (includes 10 drones)

Where to buy: DroneBlocks

If you’re looking to teach programming or want an educational tool for students, the DroneBlocks Light Show Kit is a fantastic option. With this kit, DroneBlocks blends education and fun, making drones more than just a tool for entertainment. Students can see their code come to life in a tangible, visually stunning way.

This kit focuses on coding drone light shows, making it ideal for STEM programs or coding camps.

Unlike the UVify option that prices per drone, the DroneBlocks kit’s pricing model requires a minimum number of drones. The starting kit, which includes 10 drones, costs $7,495 (or $750 per drone).

And do note that while this kit is great for small-scale projects and classrooms, it does lack advanced features found in professional drones.

Key DroneBlocks Light Show Kit features

  • Beginner-friendly: Designed for educators and students with no prior experience.
  • Hands-on programming: Learn to choreograph light displays using simple coding platforms like Scratch or Python.
  • Affordable entry point: A good balance between cost and capability for those just starting out.

Drawbacks — not dealbreakers

While this kit is great for small-scale projects and classrooms, it does lack advanced features found in professional drones. For example, drones have a maximum programmable height of 8 meters (26 feet). That’s a nice safety feature so students don’t fly drones out of control, but you won’t be flying huge-scale shows over major buildings with these drones.

Flight times are just 12 minutes, which means you should plan on keeping your drone show at eight minutes or less.

Best for DIY enthusiasts: Drone Dojo Light Show Kit

(Photo by Drone Dojo)

Price: Varies based on parts used, but ~$1,000 per drone

Where to buy: Source parts on your own via Drone Dojo guide, which incorporates the Raspberry Pi drone kit.

For hobbyists or educators who want to create small-scale light shows without breaking the bank, the Drone Dojo Light Show Kit is a great choice. This DIY kit allows you to assemble your drones, program light displays, and learn the basics of drone show production.

Drone Dojo is an online, membership-based drone course website. They have a range of DIY-style drone building and computer coding courses including “How to program a drone using Python” and “Precision Landing and Drone Delivery.” Drone Dojo’s light show guide is actually free. That says, it largely assumes you’ve gone through the course on “How to build a Raspberry Pi drone.”

Key Drone Dojo Light Show Kit features

  • Budget-friendly: The kit itself is a fraction of the cost of professional drones, making it accessible for beginners. Meanwhile, membership to go through the courses is just $27 per month (and that includes all courses, not just the light show course).
  • Customizable: The kit includes programmable LEDs for light effects and basic choreography.
  • Educational value: Perfect for learning drone assembly and programming in a hands-on way.

Drawbacks — not dealbreakers

This Drone Dojo kit is best for personal projects or educational purposes. Don’t plan on buying a bunch of drones to put on large-scale events or other commercial use applications.

And as is the case with any DIY project, this isn’t for the faint of heart. Be prepared to put in the effort (and to shop around to nab a deal). From there, accept that the drones will lack the precision and durability of professional models like the UVify. Consider these more of a great entry point for learning the craft.

Enroll in the Drone Dojo’s membership program, or purchase the Raspberry Pi drone kit to get started making your own drone light show.

Key considerations before buying light show drones

Disneyland Paris drone show Disney Electrical Sky Parade drone girl Sally French
Sally French, The Drone Girl, watching Disney Electrical Sky Parade. (Photo by Hamilton Nguyen)

Buying a light show drone setup is no cheap investment — and there’s a lot of other work that goes into putting on a drone light show beyond just buying a great, easy-to-launch option. Though we dig deeper into what goes into launching a drone business of any kind elsewhere on my site, here’s a high-level overview of other things you need to know before launching a drone show business.

Get your drone license — and have other waivers or permits

Operating drones for light shows involves adhering to aviation regulations in your region. In the U.S., this typically includes:

  • Part 107 Certification: All pilots must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate to operate drones commercially.
  • Waivers: You may need specific FAA waivers, such as having multiple drones under the control of one operator. For pyro-enabled drones, additional waivers for the use of fireworks are required.
  • Local Permits: Some locations may require permits for outdoor events, especially in urban areas or near airports.
  • Event Coordination: Notify local air traffic control or authorities about your show to avoid conflicts with other airspace users. You can typically do this using LAANC.

Purchase insurance

Though not required to fly drones under FAA rules, you’ll typically want drone insurance before putting on a drone show. Your client, or the owners of the land you’re flying over, might require it.

Key policies include:

  • General Liability Insurance: Covers property damage and bodily injuries during operations.
  • Hull Insurance: Protects your drones against damage or loss.
  • Pyrotechnics Insurance: If using pyro-enabled drones, you’ll need specific coverage for fireworks-related risks.
  • Errors and Omissions Insurance: Covers mistakes or oversights in your professional services.

On that note, before any drone show, your safety procedures should include:

  • Site Surveys: Conduct thorough site assessments to identify potential hazards.
  • Emergency Plans: Prepare for scenarios like drone malfunctions, fires, or audience safety breaches.
  • Clear Communication: Work closely with event organizers and local authorities to ensure smooth operations.

Set up software and choreography tools

Some of the drones in this guide come with software designed specifically to work with that drone. However, if it doesn’t, have a plan for:

  • Fleet Management Software: Manage and monitor multiple drones simultaneously during a show.
  • Choreography Platforms: Tools like DroneShow Software or proprietary platforms (like what UVify offers with their drones) allow you to design synchronized light displays.
  • Backup Systems: Always have a backup of your choreography and a redundancy plan in case of software failure.

How to choose the best light show drone

When considering light show drones for sale, here’s the tl;dr of what we would choose.

  • For professionals: UVify IFO drones are the best option for precision, durability, and pyro integration. The Lumenier ARORA is a possible alternative, though it’s less tried and true than UVify.
  • For hobbyists or educators: Kits from DroneBlocks and Drone Dojo provide an affordable way to learn and experiment. UVify also works with hobbyists and provides IFO to educational institutions with a special education discount. 

Ready to light up the sky? Whether you’re crafting an unforgettable wedding reception or an educational STEM program, make sure you buy the best light show drone to make it happen.

Considering the UVify IFO? Mention UVify promo code DGIFO to your UVify sales representative to receive a 5% discount plus an additional free battery and set of high-performance props per IFO. 

The post Light show drones for sale: where (and how) to buy the best drones for your drone light show appeared first on The Drone Girl.

5,000 DRONE SANTA

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The third annual Sky Elements Flagship Christmas drone show will take place in North Richland Hills, Texas. The team is partnering with the City of North Richland Hills to fly a massive drone show over the Birdville ISD Fine Arts/Athletics Complex. A brand new Christmas story will be told in the skies and airwaves over […]

Orlando World Center Marriott to host free drone show this winter

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Need a last-minute Christmas vacation idea this year? Drone fans should consider the Orlando World Center Marriott, which is offering an entirely new hotel amenity that we can get behind.

From Dec. 25 to Dec. 30, 2024 the world’s largest Marriott hotel will debut its first-ever holiday-themed drone show, designed by Sky Elements, which was a finalist on America’s Got Talent and America’s largest drone show company. The show will feature 200 synchronized drones lighting up the night sky above the resort’s Falls Pool.

A holiday themed drone show from Sky Elements. (Photo courtesy of Sky Elements)

Drone shows have become a highlight elsewhere in Orlando, including the Disney Dreams That Soar show at Disney Springs, plus the CineSational show over the summer at Universal. Just over a week ago, the IAAPA 2024 theme park conference hosted a record-breaking drone show for the Guinness World Record title of “Largest aerial display of a bird formed by multi-rotors/drones.”

But the Orlando World Center Marriott is blazing a trail as the first hotel in Orlando to offer such a holiday experience.

“At Orlando World Center Marriott, we want to help our guests experience the magic of the holiday season whether they are at the theme parks or looking to make memories with their family on-property,” said Robert Bray, General Manager at Orlando World Center Marriott.. “We invested in our holiday programming to introduce the best winter experience we have ever created and build new traditions for our guests.”

Here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit to Orlando World Center Marriott and experience its unique drone show offering:

When and where to watch the Orlando World Center Marriott drone show

A Christmas themed drone show from Sky Elements. (Photo courtesy of Sky Elements)

The Orlando World Center Marriott drone show begins nightly at 8:30 p.m., and each evening presents a unique theme — but all with intricate formations, vibrant colors and holiday cheer.

As far as the best place to watch? The best free-to-watch spot is the Falls Pool area (though you need a wristband to enter, which you get by booking a room at the hotel). Or, if you want a more private experience, book a Holiday Drone View Room. These rooms offer a private balcony vantage point.

Otherwise, non-hotel guests can still find a way in by dining on property. Those folks should do dinner and a show at either the Lobby Bar Terrace or Mikado’s viewing deck.

What drones are used?

Sky Elements uses drones from UVify, which famously makes the IFO drone. IFO drones cost $1,585 a piece, which means this drone show will likely have more than $300,000 worth of gear in the sky.

As it turns out, you can buy one for yourself. Though these drones aren’t sold at traditional electronics retailers, you can get your hands on your own light show fleet by emailing UVify’s sales team. And if you, drop my name. It benefits you! Give them coupon code DGIFO in your email for a 5% discount plus an additional free battery and set of high-performance props per IFO.

Other winter festivities at the Orlando World Center Marriott

Orlando World Center Marriott bar
The Stockroom bar at the Orlando World Center Marriott. (Photo courtesy of Marriott)

The drone show is certainly the highlight, but that’s far from the only winter festivities happening at this over-the-top hotel. Other activities happening at the hotel this Christmas include:

  • Silent Night Disco Bash: A festive silent disco party.
  • Secret Ugly Sweater Bar: Hidden in the resort’s speakeasy, it’s a quirky holiday treat.
  • Cookie and Gingerbread Decorating: Family-friendly, hands-on fun.
  • Mermaid & Glow Party: A signature poolside event held on 12/28.

How to save on a stay at the Orlando World Center Marriott

Orlando World Center Marriott pool
The River Falls pool at the Orlando World Center Marriott. (Photo courtesy of Marriott)

Special booking packages: The property is running a few special offers, including the “Getaway in Our World” package which includes a $50 nightly resort credit and free self-parking. For fans of free hotel breakfast, the “Breakfast Before You Explore” package includes breakfast for two adults and two children.

Cyber Sales: There’s also an early Black Friday/Cyber Monday sale that runs through Travel Tuesday) where you can save 25% on weekend stays through Jan. 20. The deal is even available during Christmas week.

Pay with points: Marriott Bonvoy members can also redeem Bonvoy points for their stay. Though many certainly earn points through frequent Marriott stays, you can also earn points through everyday spending on a Marriott credit card or by transferring points from a partner program like American Express Membership Rewards and Chase Ultimate Rewards®.

What to know about booking the Orlando World Center Marriott

The days between Christmas and New Year’s are typically bustling at the Orlando World Center Marriott. That’s unsurprising given the hype around the drone show and the fact that many snowbird families flock to enjoy the holiday season somewhere warm. Booking early is advised to secure your spot in the center of the action.

And if you don’t make it this year, have hope. The Orlando World Center Marriott resort said it intends to host more drone shows in the future.

Want to buy your very own light show drone?

The post Orlando World Center Marriott to host free drone show this winter appeared first on The Drone Girl.

Neuromorphic Cameras and Pilotless Air Taxis on Weekly Wings!

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In this week’s episode of drone news podcast Weekly Wings, Paul Rossi and Terry Neff delve into a variety of exciting developments in drone technology, autonomous systems, and advanced air mobility. The episode kicks off with the Sprayhawk, an automated agricultural helicopter developed by Rotor Technologies and AG Nav. The hosts discuss its potential to […]

The post Neuromorphic Cameras and Pilotless Air Taxis on Weekly Wings! appeared first on DRONELIFE.

IAAPA 2024 puts on record-breaking drone show

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It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s a…no, it’s definitely a bird. For the people in Orlando on the night of Nov. 20, 2024 they were treated to a record-breaking drone show.

2,484 drones flew over the Orlando Convention Center as part of a Guinness World Record attempt. The record broken? “Largest aerial display of a bird formed by multi-rotors/drones.” And though not a formally-tracked record by Guinness standards, the drone show was the largest drone light show flown in the United States.

Drone light show company Sky Elements put on the show as part of IAAPA 2024, a massive conference all about theme parks. This year specifically, the IAAPA conference is heavily emphasizing drones, both for attractions like nighttime drone shows as well as practical use cases like cleaning.

(Photo courtesy of Sky Elements)

Record-breaking drone shows

This particular show marks the Sky Elements team’s 10th Guinness World Record attempt. It also marks the company’s third attempt specifically at the IAAPA conference. Sky Elements broke two Guinness World Records at IAAPA Expo 2023 the prior year for the categories of “largest logo flown with multi-rotors/drones” and “largest flag created with multi-rotors or drones.”

Guinness World Records tracks about 65,000 world records, and there is a large handful having entirely to do with drone light shows. Other records up for grabs include the record for “Largest aerial display of a fictional character formed by multirotors / drones.” Sky Elements earned that one when it put 2,400 drones on the field of Petco Park in San Diego as part of a “Deadpool and Wolverine” themed show for San Diego Comic Con. Other notable records to its name include most remote-operated multi-rotor drones launching fireworks simultaneously.

India-based drone light show company, BotLab Dynamics last month broke 5 world records in less than 13 minutes in a single show that broke records including largest aerial logo display formed by drones.

What drones does Sky Elements use?

Photo of a past Guinness World Record drone show courtesy of Uvify.

Sky Elements flies a model of drones from UVify called the IFO Swarm drones. In fact, Sky Elements was one of UVify’s first U.S. customers, and  Sky Elements has the largest standing fleet of IFO drones in the United States.

Sky Elements is the first company to have received FAA approval to fly pyro drones in the U.S. For its pyro shows, Sky Elements uses the UVify IFO-P, which is a retrofitted version of its IFO drone and is capable of carrying up to 12 pyrotechnics devices.

How to get your own light show drone

Each IFO drone costs $1,585. That means there’s going to be nearly $4 million in tech in the sky at one time tonight.

And should you want to buy your own, it’s relatively doable. UVify’s setup is a turnkey system, meaning everything needed is included. That means you get training, hardware, software, 24/7 support every day of the year, and access to the company’s Fleet Augmentation Bank. Shortened as FAB, it’s a rental network that enables operators in the UVify IFO network to access thousands more IFO drones to augment their fleet size at their convenience. That’s useful if, you know, you want to put on a world record attempt.

You can’t just buy a light show drone on Amazon or any other big store. You’ll have to reach out and email UVify’s sales team.

When you do, drop my name. It benefits you! Mention UVify coupon code DGIFO in your email for a 5% discount plus an additional free battery and set of high-performance props per IFO. 

The post IAAPA 2024 puts on record-breaking drone show appeared first on The Drone Girl.

Drone Show Creator by SPH Engineering: Revolutionizing Aerial Entertainment for Creatives Everywhere

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Intuitive, All-in-One Software Empowers Beginners and Experts to Design Stunning Drone Choreography with Ease by DRONELIFE Staff Writer Ian J. McNabb Latvian drone software company SPH Engineering recently announced a new product- Drone Show Creator, which allows beginners and professionals alike to quickly and easily put together impressive drone shows. By breaking down the technical […]

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At IAAPA 2024, drones are the next big thing in theme park magic

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The buzz at this year’s IAAPA Expo in Orlando isn’t just about roller coasters or new virtual reality rides. At IAAPA 2024, it’s all about drones, and more specifically drone light shows.

From Disney’s crowd-making drone show at Disney Springs over the summer called Disney Dreams That Soar to a competing drone show across the way at Universal Orlando, drones are redefining entertainment in theme parks worldwide.

That’s the clear trend at IAAPA 2024. Short for the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, the conference of the same name happens annually in the theme park capital of the world, Orlando, Florida. The conference brings together all sorts of leaders in the theme park world, from ride makers to culinary creators. Some amusement parks use the massive conference to announce new rides. Others flaunt their funky foods.

But this year, it’s drones everywhere. The trade show floor opens today and is ongoing throughout most day time hours until the end of the week on Friday, Nov. 22. And here are some of the highlights of drones at IAAPA 2024:

Drone light show companies on the show floor

Santa Clause takes to the sky in a Christmas drone show from Sky Elements. (Photo by Sky Elements)

This year has no shortage of drone light show exhibitors. Among those are UVify, which makes the drones that power the shows put on by America’s Got Talent finalist Sky Elements. There’s Pixel Swarm Drones, another drone light show company. Another big name exhibiting? Dronisos, which is perhaps most famous for putting on Disney’s Electrical Sky Parade. That show, held at Disneyland Paris, is my favorite drone show out there.

And all those drone show booths really stand out. Over at the Dronisos booth at #3802, the team is actually giving away a custom drone light show. Besides Disneyland Paris, Dronisos also powers drone shows at Dollywood, Legoland and Puy du Fou.

Sky Elements drone light show Oakland A's Coliseum
UVify drones are laid out in a grid ahead of a Sky Elements drone show. Photo by Sally French

Meanwhile UVify has been using its booth to promote its IFO light show drone. UVify also makes the IFO-P, which is a pyro drone (yes, that means a drone with fireworks attached).

Why are the booths so popular this year? Drones bring together a rare combination of sustainability, adaptability, and pure thrill. Unlike traditional fireworks, drones offer an environmentally friendly option with no smoke, loud explosions, or debris left behind. But they also bring something even more exciting to the table: the ability to change and evolve. Each drone show can be customized with different lighting, shapes and even logos, providing an ideal canvas for theme parks and attractions looking to create branded experiences.

An actual drone light show

Seeing the drones themselves on a table is nothing like seeing them from the sky. Many people still have yet to have seen a drone show. And for companies looking to proof just how awesome drone shows are at theme parks, IAAPA 2024 makes it an easy sell. This year’s conference features multiple nights of drone shows.

For the first time ever, IAAPA 2024 is hosting a nighttime drone show, held just outside the Orange County Convention Center. Sky Elements is powering the show — and it could potentially be another record-breaking show.

Shows will go on the following dates and times:

  • Tuesday, Nov. 19: 6:15 p.m. and 8:05 p.m.
  • Wednesday, Nov. 20: 6:15 p.m.

And by the way, if you’re going to the conference, reference this map which spells out the two best viewing locations.

More than just light shows: power washing drones and more

(Photo courtesy of Apellix)

While drone shows seem to get the biggest spot light, those aren’t the only drone sightings at IAAPA 2024. Some unique use cases are flying high too.

For example, Apellix Power Wash Drones has a booth at 7230. There, the company (which is actually based in Florida and is considered the maker of one of the best exterior building cleaning drones) is promoting how it can assist with theme park maintenance.

Drones are here to stay

In the past, drones often had a negative perception, such as spying. And sure, some drones still grapple with that challenge. But if IAAPA 2024 is any indicating, then it’s clear the tides are turning.

The public increasingly sees drones as a source of joy and entertainment. You can already see plenty of drone shows in theme parks today. But especially over the next few years as theme park leaders take what they learned at IAAPA 2024 and implement it in their own parks, look up. You might just catch a bit of magic hovering in the night sky.

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Indian Firm Breaks 5 Guinness World Records with a 5,500 Drone Light Show

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– BotLab Dynamics’ recent Amaravati Drone Summit 2024 was held in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India on October 22, where 5 Guinness World Records were broken with a display of 5,500 drones in a single show. Here are the key records set during the event: Largest Aerial Display of a Vehicle Formed by Multirotors/Drones  – A […]

Lights to Lasers: Drones in Sports, Safety, and Sanctions on this Episode of Weekly Wings

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In this episode of the Weekly Wings podcast, hosts Paul Rossi, Samuel Stansberry, and Terry Neff dive into a range of engaging topics surrounding drones and technology. They start by sharing personal memories of attending big sporting events, like Yankees games and UFC matches, highlighting how these traditions bring joy and nostalgia. Shifting to current […]

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AGT Season 19: Sky Elements nabs podium finish

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Drone light shows have become a captivating blend of technology and artistry. One company at the forefront of the trend, Sky Elements, just made history by finishing third on AGT Season 19.

It’s a huge milestone considering no drone light show company has come anywhere near this far on NBC’s America’s Got Talent, let alone made a podium finish. Their AGT Season 19 run brought an innovative twist to a competition traditionally dominated by singers, dancers, and acrobats. Alas, Sky Elements didn’t win the final, $1 million prize, but they did cement their status as trailblazers in the world of entertainment.

“Inspirational, brilliants, unique,” said judge Simon Cowell of Sky Elements podium finish. “I think it was great for us, and I think it was great for you.”

How Sky Elements got so far on AGT Season 19

AGT Season 19 Sky Elements Phoenix drone show
A moment from the Sky Elements Semi-Finals performance. (Photo courtesy of NBC)

Sky Elements’ rise to prominence on AGT is nothing short of remarkable. For starters, they showed their prowess in mastering the technical challenges of using drones as artistic tools. That’s not just having the right hardware and software, but also working with the Federal Aviation Administration to fly swarms of drones over Pasadena.

From there, they brought in intricate choreography that was just as emotional as it was thoughtful.

In a finale packed with performances from world-class artists and entertainers, the drone specialists held their own, delivering one last breathtaking display outside the Pasadena Civic Auditorium. That was their fifth drone show to air on NBC’s America’s Got Talent.

Their audition nabbed a Golden buzzer from Simon Cowell. Perhaps the spacewalk who turned out to be, well, Simon Cowell himself, had something to do with it. They then performed a circus-themed drone show at Quarter Finals, which took them to an emotional Semi-Finals performance. That show memorialized the daughter of Sky Elements Chief Pilot Preston Ward. Named Briley Rose, she passed away as an infant. For the America’s Got Talent finale, which yours truly (that’s me, Drone Girl) attended live, Sky Elements performed a show called American Dream.

Winners were determined based on audience votes. The America’s Got Talent rules allow each person to submit up to 10 votes for every performer.

The final results of AGT Season 19

AGT Season 19 Learnmore Jonasi
Learnmore Jonasi (Photo courtesy of NBC)

Ultimately Sky Elements didn’t get enough votes to win the top, $1 million spot. Here were the top 5, in order from position 5 all the way down to the top, gold medal spot:

5. Learnmore Jonasi – The comedian’s unique brand of humor and relatable storytelling earned him a spot in the top five.

4. Solange Kardinaly – The quick-change magician brought clever humor — and impeccable sewing skills — to the stage.

3. Sky Elements – The drone show company amazed audiences with their precise and colorful light shows, using hundreds of drones to create unforgettable spectacles.

2. Roni Sagi & Rhythm – The electrifying dancers (one of which is a dog) fused rhythm and incredibly choreography.

1. Richard Goodall – The singing janitor stole America’s hearts — and ultimately nabbed the $1 million prize.

A star-studded finale

Simone Biles
Olympic legend Simone Biles. (Photo courtesy of NBC)

The AGT finale wasn’t just about the competition. The episode featured performances by some of the biggest names in entertainment. Olympic legend Simone Biles promoted her Gold Over America Tour, while The Voice coach Michael Bublé serenaded the audience with his classic crooner style. Neal Schon and members of Journey performed timeless hits (including a rendition of “Don’t Stop Believing” with winner Richard Goodall.

DJ Steve Aoki and AIRFOOTWORKS
DJ Steve Aoki and AIRFOOTWORKS. (Photo courtesy of NBC)

Others in the top 10 performed alongside already-famous performers. For example, DJ Steve Aoki spun a set in tandem with AIRFOOTWORKS.

For us, though, the highlight was Sky Elements’ top-three finish, which highlights a turning point for tech-driven performance art on mainstream stages.

Want to learn how to make your own drone light show? Check out the Drone Dojo light show kit, which starts at just $1,000. Or, check out the even more robust DroneBlocks Light Show Kit which includes more drones for $7,500.

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