Best Practices for Large Airborne Mapping Projects

Large airborne surveying and mapping projects are vital for modern infrastructure and urban planning. By leveraging advanced technology and navigating the complexities of LiDAR, photogrammetric, and geodetic systems, these projects can significantly contribute to the development and maintenance of accurate base maps, ultimately enhancing decision-making processes across sectors. As a result, large airborne surveying and mapping projects are conducted regularly across the United States and globally. These initiatives aim to acquire high-resolution aerial imagery that can encompass entire countries, states, provinces, counties, or cities. The primary goal is to update base maps that serve as essential tools in both public and private sectors to enable a variety of applications including infrastructure, construction, urban planning, agriculture, forestry, oil and gas, and mining. Typically, these projects are outsourced by government entities—be it municipal, state, provincial, local, or federal—through a competitive tendering process. This rigorous process involves detailed screening to select a qualified service provider. Once chosen, the service provider takes on full responsibility for the project, encompassing several key phases: 1. Project Planning and Management 2. Data Collection 3. Data Processing 4. Map Production 5. Product Delivery and Installation on government servers and GIS/CAD systems. These surveys are often conducted using crewed aircraft equipped with professional-grade sensors, including large-format multi- camera systems and advanced LiDAR systems. The use of these technologies allows for the collection of precise and comprehensive data, which is crucial for creating accurate maps. In countries with well-defined geodetic datums and geoids, such as the USA, Canada, Australia, Western Europe, and Japan, mapping projects can proceed more smoothly. However, in many developing nations, the lack of investment in reliable geodetic systems presents significant challenges. This gap can complicate large mapping projects, leading to discrepancies and inefficiencies. To delve deeper into the intricacies of executing large aerial survey projects, a panel discussion will be held featuring experienced executives from various mapping companies. This session aims to explore both the scientific and artistic aspects of aerial surveying, highlighting best practices, technological advancements, and the challenges faced in different regions. Designed to be informative, educational, and interactive, industry experts have been invited to participate in this session as speakers and panelists. First, each speaker will do a 10-minute presentation addressing the here and now technological challenges and their associated solutions as well as the best practice for large survey projects that they use. A 30-min panel discussion will then be held in order to allow for audience participation.