Aerial Survey Pilot

As an Aerial Survey Pilot, you will be responsible for flying aircraft to capture aerial imagery and data for mapping and surveying purposes. You will need a strong understanding of aviation principles and navigation techniques, as well as experience with aerial surveying equipment and software. Strong piloting skills and attention to detail are essential, as you will be responsible for capturing accurate and high-quality aerial data.

Aerial Survey Pilots play a vital role in collecting geospatial data from the air. They are responsible for flying aircraft equipped with specialized sensors and cameras to capture high-resolution images and data for various mapping and surveying purposes. 

​One of the most important skills for an Aerial Survey Pilot is exceptional flying ability. They must have a commercial pilot's license and extensive flight experience to safely operate the aircraft in various weather conditions and terrains. They need to be skilled in navigation, maneuvering, and maintaining control of the aircraft while ensuring the safety of the crew and equipment on board.

​Another crucial skill for an Aerial Survey Pilot is proficiency in operating and calibrating the surveying equipment on board the aircraft. They need to have a thorough understanding of the sensors, cameras, and other data collection devices to ensure accurate and high-quality data acquisition. They should be able to troubleshoot any technical issues that may arise during the flight and make necessary adjustments to optimize data collection.

​Attention to detail is a key task for an Aerial Survey Pilot. They need to carefully plan the flight path and coordinate with ground survey teams to ensure complete coverage of the survey area. They should also be able to accurately position the aircraft and maintain a consistent altitude and speed to capture precise and georeferenced data. They need to pay close attention to the quality of the images and data collected, identifying any anomalies or errors that may affect the accuracy of the final results.

​Data management and processing are also important responsibilities for an Aerial Survey Pilot. They need to organize and store the collected data in a systematic manner, ensuring its integrity and security. They should be able to transfer the data to the ground teams for further processing and analysis, following established protocols and standards.

​Collaboration is another important aspect of an Aerial Survey Pilot's job. They often work closely with surveyors, geographers, and other professionals involved in the mapping and surveying projects. They should be able to effectively communicate with the team, providing updates on the flight progress and any issues encountered during the mission.

​In addition to technical skills, an Aerial Survey Pilot should have strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities. They may encounter unexpected challenges during the flight, such as adverse weather conditions or equipment malfunctions, and need to be able to think quickly and make sound judgments to ensure the safety and success of the mission.

​Overall, an Aerial Survey Pilot plays a critical role in collecting accurate and high-quality geospatial data from the air. With their exceptional flying ability, proficiency in operating surveying equipment, attention to detail, data management skills, collaboration abilities, and problem-solving capabilities, they contribute to the success of mapping and surveying projects in various industries, including land development, environmental monitoring, and infrastructure planning.