Building models is so time-consuming that a company with a head start in the business has a good chance of defending its position for years.

ECONOMIST: Three-dimensional imaging

"That meant rebuilding them from scratch" -- a time-consuming effort.

CNN: Computer virus hits U.S. drone fleet

But for those who fly for themselves, or who might be interested in giving it a try, these advances could make it much safer, easier, and less time-consuming to be a pilot in the near future.

FORBES: Will Your Next Airplane Be A Drone?