An inductive landing apparatus for an unmanned aerial vehicle and methods of operation. One method includes locating, with a flight controller, an overhead power line. The method includes controlling a flight system communicatively coupled to the flight controller to bring the unmanned aerial vehicle in proximity to the overhead power line. The method includes controlling the flight system to position the unmanned aerial vehicle such that a first inductive clamp and a second inductive clamp of the unmanned aerial vehicle are aligned with the overhead power line. The method includes causing the first and second inductive clamps to open. The method includes causing the first and second inductive clamps to close around the overhead power line. The method includes inductively coupling the first and second inductive clamps to the overhead power line.