Prior to commencement of the aerial imagery acquisition, IMC researches the location and the shape of the project in order to design and plan the optimal flight plan that is suitable for the horizontal and vertical accuracy required.

Using our Track Air flight planning software, a Certified Photogrammetrist starts designing each flight line based on the desired contour interval and mapping requirements. All flight lines are planned using  30% side lap and 60% forward lap. Flight plans are then given to the pilot to import into the aircraft Track Air navigation system. Project boundaries, flight lines, control points, etc. are exported out into geo-referenced. Google Earth kmz files and delivered to the client with descriptions and approximate coordinates to help with panel point locations.

IMC retains the services of Richard Crouse & Associates in Spartanburg, SC to acquire the aerial imagery. RC&A is one of the best-equipped and most experienced aerial firms in the country with multiple aircraft sensors. IMC has had a long and successful relationship with RC&A, and we have benefited greatly from their responsive high quality service.

IMC recommends using a DMC digital 4 band sensor coupled with airborne GPS/IMU on large projects. The benefits to this platform include better quality imagery, no film processing or scanning, ability to adjust brightness/contrast in shadowy areas for better clarity and 3D visualization, fewer ground control points and smoother workflow in general.