Marubeni Aerospace Partners with LIFT Aircraft to Bring HEXA eVTOL to Japan LIFT Aircraft, in partnership with Marubeni Aerospace, plans to launch its unique pay-per-flight eVTOL service in Japan during World Expo 2025. Following successful demonstrations in Osaka and an exhibition at SusHi Tech 2024 in Tokyo, the collaboration marks Japan as the first market […]
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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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What will the 2025 drone industry look like? What challenges lie ahead? What opportunities will drone companies prioritize in the next year?
While a lot of things change, one thing in particular remains steadfast in the drone industry. Regulatory obstacles remain the top challenge for the drone industry 2024, as has been the case for years now.
That’s according to the Global State of Drones 2024 report, which was based on 964 survey responses from drone users across a record 94 countries, collected between May and July 2024. The survey, conducted by German-based analytics group Drone Industry Insight, polled industry representatives who span everything from small business owners to leaders at massive companies with more than 500 people. They considered the hardware, software and service provider sector.
So with that, here are some of the most encouraging things about drones to come in 2025. And of course, here’s also a look at the biggest challenges for drones in 2025:
As is the case in most years, marketing and sales is a top priority for drone businesses in 2025. After all, work (for most people, at least) is about making money. 31% of respondents in DII’s survey said that marketing and sales is their top priority in 2025.
Here’s a breakdown of how drone businesses are prioritizing resources in 2025 ranked from most to least percent of businesses that said it was a priority:
Marketing and sales is far and away the standout priority for the 2025 drone industry, but it’s also interesting to look at historical data. For the past couple years, marketing and sales has been a top priority for about 31-33% of drone companies. But that figure has increased from the high 20 percents up until 2022, when it skyrocketed to 33%.
While marketing and sales has long been a priority, finances and funding is at least a growing priority. That interest has grown from 12% in 2019 to 16% in 2024, only seeing a slight dip in 2021. Hardware development has also seen a slight uptick in prioritization.
And what sorts of things are businesses prioritizing less? The biggest factor is staff development. Though that begs some interesting questions.
“Is it becoming less important to develop staff because new staff are already prepared?” DII asked in an analysis of the data. “Or are companies simply investing less in their people and more in their products?”
According to DII’s Global State of Drones 2024 report, client acquisition has become a relatively new concern. Other growing concerns for the 2025 drone industry include fears about acquiring funding for scaling up. There’s also that growing focus on domestic politics over geopolitical issues.
So with that, here are the top concerns among drone companies for the year ahead, ranked from biggest to smallest concern:
As was the case last year, regulatory obstacles reign supreme as top obstacle for drone companies worldwide.
It’s particularly pronounced in the U.S. where regulation around Remote ID proved challenging and confusing. Final rule for Remote ID deadlines were continuously extended, and even uptick in adoption of Remote ID modules has been low (despite the rule officially in effect now).
Now the FAA has certainly made some major drone approvals, speeding up or processes or removing barriers in the U.S. For example, the FAA has begun issuing approvals to launch fireworks from drones. The NYPD just earned a historic FAA approval to fly drones beyond-line-of-sight (BVLOS) across much of NYC without needing either a visual observer or even other type of specialized equipment to detect other aircraft. But that might all mean nothing if politicians crack down on drones. A largely Republican-driven effort has sought to ban Chinese-made drones in the U.S. That’s left many drone businesses wondering if they should even buy DJI drones amidst a Chinese drone ban.
But optimists might not look at regulation as so much of a challenge as more of a market driver.
“The share of participants who considered rulemaking authorities as the top market drivers increased from 52% last year to 57% this year,” according to DII. “In other words, regulation remained the top challenge. But with more regulations being implemented and taking effect around the
world, regulation is perhaps starting to be seen as less of a [negative] “challenge” and more of a [positive] “market driver.”
Then again, previous concerns — notably inflation and public acceptance — have decreased in importance for drone companies. Inflation truly has been less stark now than it was in past years, so that one isn’t all that surprising. In fact, inflation was the third-biggest concern in last year’s version of the same report. Yet this year, it fell in concern to 8th place.
Meanwhile, as drones become more widely used, perhaps it’s also unsurprisingly that public acceptance is less of an issue than it once was. Perhaps anecdotes like Sky Elements making the America’s Got Talent Season 19 winning podium and the increasingly affordability of camera drones (hello $200 DJI Neo) has something to do with it.
Learn more about the challenges and opportunities for the 2025 drone industry in the Global State of Drones 2024 report from DII.
What do you anticipate the 2025 drone industry looking like? What challenges and opportunities lie ahead? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!
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From delivering stores to high-speed racing, soldiers have had their eyes firmly on the sky as the use of Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) gathers pace in the British Army. While the latest technology was being tested by the Experimentation and Trials Group (ETG) on Salisbury Plain, soldiers were enjoying the thrills and spills of First […]
The Twin-tailed Scorpion B drone, receiving improvements in terms of short-range takeoff capability and high-altitude flight performance compared with other products in its family, is set to make its debut alongside two large transport drones at the Airshow China 2024 in Zhuhai, South China’s Guangdong Province from November 12 to 17, 2024, according to the […]
China has unveiled its latest high-powered laser defense system, known as the Red Wing Vanguard (or Striker), designed specifically to counter unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) threats. Capable of generating 3 kW of laser power, the Red Wing Vanguard is equipped to intercept and neutralize drones within a range of over 1 kilometer. The system boasts […]New Upgrades Enhance Efficiency, Safety, and Durability for Critical Inspections Industries requiring reliable, efficient inspection solutions in challenging environments now have a new option. The latest release, Voliro T Version 5, brings together hardware and software advancements to meet the growing demand for precise, responsive, and durable inspection technology. Developed in collaboration with experts in […]
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New Ottawa Event Showcases Drones as a Vibrant Alternative to Fireworks Diwali celebrations in Ottawa took an innovative turn this year with a dazzling 250-drone light show by Illumin Drone Shows. Held on October 25 at the Capital Diwali Mela at Saint Elias Banquet Centre, the event brought together over 500 attendees who enjoyed a […]
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(Part of a series on the drone community’s response to natural disasters) Hurricane Helene, the massive and deadly storm that tore through a large swath of the U.S. Southeast in late September, triggered a tremendous response from the drone-flying community, as individual operators and private companies deployed their UAVs to transport much needed supplies and […]
The post Unity in Crisis: How Drone Teams Mobilized to Aid Hurricane Helene Disaster Relief in Eastern Tennessee appeared first on DRONELIFE.
Disneyland Paris, located just outside of Paris, offers a magical European twist on the Disney experience. Whether you’re a fan of thrilling attractions (their Space Mountain has a loop!) or trying France’s take on theme park food (yes, they sell wine everywhere), Disneyland Paris has something for everyone. But if you’re a drone enthusiast, there’s one part of the park experience you absolutely cannot miss: the breathtaking nighttime drone show.
The current drone show on display is Disney Electrical Sky Parade, which runs nightly ahead of the classic fireworks show. Both occur on the skies over Sleeping Beauty Castle, making Main Street and the esplanade in front the best places to watch.
And yes, I’ve got an in-depth Disney Paris drone show review, which includes tips for how to watch. I share the best viewing spots, the best days to go, how early to line up and more. But what else do you need to know about visiting Disneyland Paris in general?
Here’s my ultimate guide to Disneyland Paris, with a special emphasis on what vacation planners should know about catching the spectacular aerial display.
Disneyland Paris consists of two parks at Disneyland Paris — the Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park. Both offer a variety of rides, shows, and character meet-and-greets, and require a theme park ticket to enter.
There’s also a free-to-visit shopping and entertainment zone called Disney Village. Plus, it’s free to wander the lobbies, grounds and dining areas of the seven Disney-owned hotels. Disney’s property also includes two convention centers, a golf course and an arena. It’s all about 20 miles east of Paris in a city called Marne-la-Vallée, France.
The property is owned by the Walt Disney Company, having opened in 1992 as the second Disney park outside the United States. Much is similar to what you’ll find in the U.S., but it’s impossible to replicate the property’s uniquely Parisian personality anywhere else but here. Disney fans must visit, as the differences are delightful.
And drone fans absolutely must pay a visit, as this drone show is one of the best drone shows in the world.
I spent three nights at Disneyland Paris. Getting to see the drone show from all angles was critical, so I wanted three views of it.
What I didn’t realize until I got there, is I would not see it three times. Because of bad weather, the first night was cancelled. If your priority is seeing the drone show, mitigate the risk of bad weather making it so you miss the show by simply staying more nights.
No matter who you are, two full days generally makes sense to see all the rides and other shows. Come in the afternoon or evening the night before to allow for two full days, plus three nights of drone shows. With that, budget three nights of a hotel. And if you stay at a Disney-owned hotel, you often can get complimentary tickets with your room anyway (more on that later).
Buy Disneyland Paris tickets through either the official Disneyland Paris website or an authorized travel agency. Drone Girl’s recommend source for theme park tickets at the best prices is Undercover Tourist.
Plus, compared to other Disney parks around the world, Disneyland Paris generally offers the lowest prices of any Disney theme park. Disney ticket prices vary by day, but in 2024, single-day Disneyland Paris adult tickets ranged from €62 to €105 (about $67 to $115). In comparison, a single-day ticket at Walt Disney World in Florida starts at around $109 (approximately €100) for one park, with prices rising significantly during peak times.
The lower ticket prices at Disneyland Paris, combined with frequent promotions and deals, make it a more affordable destination compared to the U.S. parks. However, it’s essential to factor in additional costs like travel and accommodation when budgeting for your trip.
Park tickets are sold in flexible pricing options, including single-day, multi-day, and park-hopper tickets, which allow you to visit both Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park.
Buy in advance. Disneyland Paris usually offers discounts on tickets when purchased in advance online. You’ll generally pay less than buying at the gate, and you can also benefit from special offers that may not be available for same-day purchases.
Buy multi-days. If you’re planning on staying for more than one day, purchasing a multi-day ticket can save you money compared to buying multiple single-day tickets.
Consider an annual pass: If you plan to visit multiple times in a year, a Disneyland Paris Annual Pass can be a more cost-effective option. Plus, assholders receive free or discounted entry, as well as exclusive benefits like discounts on dining, merchandise (which is adorable, by the way) and hotels.
Purchase Disney theme park tickets at the best price from Undercover Tourist.
It’s likely you’ll visit Disneyland Paris as one piece of a longer trip to Paris (as you should). Now I do recommend staying overnight on Disney property (more on that later), but that’s not practical for all travelers.
Whether you’re staying overnight on Disney property, or just visiting the park as a day trip, Disneyland Paris is easily accessible from central Paris via the RER A train. There is a train station that goes directly to theme park property, not far from the park entrance. In fact, the train station is closer than even some hotels.
Check the train schedule on your specific visit date. But since the last train typically doesn’t leave until after midnight, it’s possible to catch the drone show and to catch the last train.
The train will be cheaper than booking a car — and it’s just as fast.
There is another option for the Disneyland Paris Express shuttle, but it has a more limited schedule. Taking the train offers far more flexibility. Though, the shuttle is really just a huge charter bus, which may be more comfortable than the public train, particularly if you have luggage.
If you’re flying in straight from the airport, Disneyland Paris is a 40-minute drive from Charles de Gaulle Airport. Shuttle services are available, which pickup at airport arrivals.
I took what’s called the “Magical Shuttle,” which is a huge charter bus that operates at both Paris-Orly and Paris-Charles De Gaulle airports. From there, the shuttles make stops at all the Disney-owned hotels, the Disney parks, plus Disney’s partner hotels and Les Villages Nature Paris.
Magical shuttle offers services just about every hour during business hours. Though, check the schedule if you’re flying in at an odd time. And while you can book in advance (recommended during busy seasons) I just bought a ticket onboard which was completely fine. Exact ticket prices vary, but expect to spend about €25 per person, each way.
Since it runs on the roads, the shuttle tends to be about the same speed as driving. Though you will make stops at a few places around Disney property. At least it’s bigger and more comfortable than a car.
Like any Disney park, Disneyland Paris can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons in summer and on weekends. To avoid long lines and enjoy a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during off-peak times. That’s generally weekdays in late winter or early fall. Or, go for the happy medium and visit during shoulder season.
But there’s something extra to consider as a drone enthusiast: maximizing your changes of seeing the drone show. Drones won’t take off in inclement weather. And though no one can predict the future, averages might provide some indication. December has the highest average monthly rainfull, so that might not be the best time to visit.
The three months with the lowest average monthly rainfall in Paris are:
Those might be better times to go, specific to the drone show action.
Disneyland Paris occasionally mixes up their drone show with a seasonal version. For example, between Oct. 2 and Nov. 3, 2024, the park offered a drone show put on a Halloween themed drone show.
The drone show only spans about 10 minutes. Luckily, there’s plenty else to see during the day.
Don’t-miss rides at the main Disneyland Park include Big Thunder Mountain and Space Mountain. For fans of the U.S. parks, don’t miss the unique attractions here such as Phantom Manor. It’s kind of like the Haunted Mansion, but not. Meanwhile, get your steps in at Alice’s Curious Labyrinth.
Over at Walt Disney Studios Park, the best two rides in Disneyland Paris are Crush’s Coaster and Ratatouille: The Adventure.
The food at Disneyland Paris is hit-and-miss. The American theme park food is skippable. Think: frozen burgers and fries, reheated.
But the French food is divine. And yes, since you’re in France, Disneyland Paris does incorporates French cuisine into its offerings. You can enjoy everything from casual French pastries to gourmet meals. Yes, wine is sold all throughout the park.
In general, the counter-service meals are meh, albeit more affordable. I thought the Cowboy Cookout Barbecue in Frontierland was the best of the bunch. Outside the theme park gates, I found the sandwiches and salads at Earl of Sandwich, which is a sandwich chain with an outpost at the Disney Village, to be the healthiest and best value for the cost.
That said, the better food are the sit-down meals. My two favorites were:
Bistrot Chez Rémy: Located in Walt Disney Studios Park, this Ratatouille-themed restaurant serves classic French dishes like ratatouille (of course!) and other entrees like steak in a setting that makes you feel like you’ve shrunk down to the size of Remy.
Walt’s – An American Restaurant: Disney fans will appreciate not just the food but the history at Walt’s – An American Restaurant. It’s located just on Main Street, U.S.A., spanning much of the second floor of the shops. The elegant restaurant celebrates the life and legacy of Walt Disney with themed rooms inspired by Disney’s most iconic films, many of which feature memorabilia.
The menu features a blend of French and American cuisine. You can even Eat Like Walt and order his beloved chili. Plus, it offers a view of the parade passing by on Main Street.
While the nighttime drone show is the reason you’re planning a trip to Disneyland Paris, the parks have other top-tier entertainment. In fact, this resort has some of the best shows of any Disney park.
The Lion King: Rhythms of the Pride Lands: For fans of “The Lion King,” a live stage show version is performed at the Frontierland Theater. Called The Lion King: Rhythms of the Pride Lands, it’s a high-energy musical rendition of “The Lion King” with live singing, dancing, acrobatics and drumming.
Mickey and the Magician: Over at Walt Disney Studios Park, Mickey and the Magician is a charming story about Mickey and his encounters with Disney characters along the way. But the real draw is the singing, dancing and magic tricks on stage.
Pixar: A Musical Adventure (The Pixar Concert): One of the newest (and best) additions to Disneyland Paris’ entertainment lineup is the Pixar: A Musical Adventure. It’s often referred to as “The Pixar Concert”. Held at Walt Disney Studios Park, The Pixar Concert features a live orchestra accompanying dance performances (with some amazing costumes, too).
For drone enthusiasts, the highlight of your Disneyland Paris trip will undoubtedly be the nighttime drone show. It’s an awe-inspiring display that has set a new standard for Disney’s evening entertainment.
The show combines traditional fireworks, laser lights, and drones in perfect harmony, creating breathtaking visuals in the night sky. Disney Electrical Sky Parade is the current show on display, playing through January 2025. Though, past drone shows have included a Marvel drone show over at the Walt Disney Studios Park.
Check out my complete guide and review of Disney Electrical Sky Parade. That said, I’ve shared some of the most critical details here:
I highly recommend staying at one of the Disney-owned hotels given the convenient proximity to the parks and exclusive guest benefits. During my stay, I chose Disney’s Newport Bay Club and absolutely loved it. Here’s why staying at a Disney hotel can make all the difference.
1. Convenient location: One of the biggest perks of staying at a Disney hotel is the close proximity to the parks. After a full day of rides, ending your night with the drone show can be magical, albeit exhausting. The last thing you’ll want is a long commute back to your hotel. Staying on property allows you to take a short walk back to your room. That makes the end of your day ier. Hotels including Newport Bay Club, Disneyland Hotel and Sequoia Lodge are all within walking distance to both theme parks.
2. Early Park Entry (Extra Magic Time): Guests staying at Disney-owned hotels receive the benefit of Extra Magic Time. This benefit allows you to enter the parks up to an hour before they open to the general public. This perk is crucial for getting on popular rides with minimal wait times.
3. Fun Disney Themes: Each Disney-owned hotel is themed to immerse you in different Disney experiences. My hotel, Newport Bay Club, had a charming nautical theme that provided a relaxing contrast to the excitement of the parks. Plus, the resort’s picturesque setting by Lake Disney offered a tranquil environment for unwinding after a busy day.
4. Exclusive Disney perks: Staying on-property also comes with a variety of Disney-exclusive perks, including Disney-themed toiletries and character breakfasts (though the breakfast is an additional fee). And while most the Disney hotels are within walking distance, the definition of “walking distance” can vary not just by person, but by yourself depending on how many miles you clocked at the parks. Given that, they also offer free shuttle services to the parks.
5. Potential for free park tickets: One of the best ways to save money at Disneyland Paris is by booking a hotel directly through the Disneyland Paris website. These packages often include free park tickets when you stay at a Disney-owned hotel.
For example, Disneyland Paris frequently runs deals where guests who book a hotel stay for three nights receive four days of park tickets for free. In fact, that’s the exact deal I took advantage of! This type of promotion is perfect if you’re planning to spend several nights at the parks to catch the drone show from all angles.
Disneyland Paris is a must-visit destination for any Disney fan, but for drone enthusiasts, the nighttime drone show is the crown jewel of the experience. Whether you’re visiting during a special event or on a regular day, be sure to include this show in your itinerary—it’s a display you won’t find at any other Disney park.
Then again, if you can’t make it to Disneyland Paris, there are plenty of other amazing theme park drone shows happening in the U.S., too.
Want to learn more about Disneyland Paris in hard copy form? For people who preferred a physical travel guide, I recommend Kyle Anderson’s Disneyland Paris Travel Guide 2024, which you can get for less than $15.
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