Fixed wing drones, also known as fixed wing UAVs, are emerging as versatile tools for professional aerial surveying, mapping, and inspection applications. Their airplane-like design allows fixed wing drones to cover large areas efficiently for up to hours of flight time. In 2024, fixed wing drones are getting smarter, longer range, and better at autonomous flight. Here are some of the best fixed wing drones that will excel in aerial applications this year.Their aerodynamic design allows fixed wing UAVs to fly at faster speeds with greater payloads than rotor-based drones.