March 20, 2026 – What began as a proof of concept nearly a decade ago has evolved into a critical tool helping CSX employees work smarter and safer across the network.

In a new video, Patrick Barnett, Technical Director of GIS Services, shares how CSX’s drone program has grown from its first fixed-wing drone into an enterprise-wide capability supporting more than eight departments.

Today, CSX operates more than 250 drones and has trained more than 350 FAA Part 107-certified pilots, underscoring a significant investment in both technology and people.

“Since 2018, we’ve continued to evolve the drone program,” Barnett said. “We’ve made an investment not only in our company, but in our employees — advancing their technology and skill sets.”

Drones are now embedded across several critical areas of the business. CSX Police use them to support a variety of operational needs, while bridge inspectors rely on drones to safely assess infrastructure that would otherwise be difficult or risky to access.

Within GIS Services, drones play an essential role in mapping, aerial surveys and rapid response following natural disasters that impact the CSX network. By delivering high-quality, real-time data from above, drone technology enables teams to assess conditions faster and make more informed decisions.

“At the end of the day, anytime we can help mitigate risk and assist employees in making safer decisions, we look to technology to help,” Barnett said.

Above all, the drone program reinforces CSX’s commitment to safety by reducing the need for employees to enter hazardous environments or work at heights.

Watch the video to hear directly from Barnett and see how drones are helping CSX teams operate safer than ever across the network.