AVIATION INDUSTRY

Visual Simulation

Visual simulation creates realistic environments using real-world imagery and geospatial data to simulate flights and train pilots. In this case, by using high-resolution satellite or aerial imagery, the simulators will be able to recreate airports and the environment around the airports, together with their runways, taxiways, buildings, and other airport infrastructure.

This type of imagery can help enhance the visual environment as well as terrain models that are utilized in flight simulators. The use of high-resolution aerial imagery, satellite imagery, and 3D models can help enhance the simulation of airports and make pilots familiar with airport layouts and navigation skills.

This kind of data can be collected through various sources such as satellite imagery, aerial imagery through aircraft, drones, and ground imagery. Through photogrammetry and geospatial software, imagery and elevation data can be converted into 3D models and integrated with flight simulation software.

The visual simulation technique is applicable in the training of pilots and air traffic controllers, as well as aircraft maintenance.

Airport Drone Mapping

Airport drone mapping involves the use of unmanned aerial vehicles to capture aerial images and geospatial data that are used for creating a map of airports and their vicinities. Data collection through drones becomes very efficient as the process requires little ground surveying effort.

Depending on the needs of the project, UAVs can be fitted with different equipment such as RGB cameras, thermal cameras, multispectral cameras, or LiDAR scanners. The captured data is processed into various geospatial products such as 2D maps, orthomosaic images, point clouds, 3D models, digital elevation models, among others.

Airport mapping with drones may be useful for:

• Airport infrastructure planning and design

• Inspection of runways and taxiways

• Assessment for safety and compliance

• Asset inventory and management

• Identification of runway cracks, deformation, and other defects

• Obstacle and terrain mapping

• Construction monitoring

Drone mapping compared to traditional surveying techniques is expected to provide more rapid data collection, high spatial resolution, and thorough mapping of hard-to-reach locations. With proper planning and implementation according to relevant aviation regulations, UAV mapping can enhance airport surveying, inspection, maintenance, and geospatial data management.