What is one way technology has changed the role of aerial patrols?

The advancement of technology has significantly enhanced the efficiency and responsiveness of aerial patrols, particularly through quicker data analysis and reporting. Modern aerial surveillance tools, such as drones and high-resolution cameras, enable the collection of large volumes of data in real time. This data can then be processed and analyzed using sophisticated software, which accelerates the identification of issues, such as leaks or damage along the pipeline.

By streamlining the workflow from data collection to analysis, patrols are able to provide timely reports to operations teams. This timely communication helps facilitate faster decision-making and remedial actions, ultimately leading to enhanced safety and reduced operational risks. The ability to quickly interpret data can also improve the accuracy of assessments and actions taken by ground teams, ensuring that resources are allocated more efficiently and effectively.

The other choices present a misunderstanding of how technology interacts with aerial patrol operations. Making ground inspections unnecessary overlooks the continued need for comprehensive assessments that often involve ground verification. Requiring more manual data entry contradicts the trend toward automation that technology supports. Finally, increasing the duration of patrols does not align with the goal of technological advancements, which typically aim to optimize efficiency and reduce operational time.