What is this course?
The Drones for Mapping course is designed for individuals interested in using drones for surveying and mapping. It consists of three components: theory, practical training, and skills assessment. The theory portion, lasting 5-6 days, covers photogrammetry, GIS, and advanced mapping software to teach participants how to capture aerial images, process data, and create maps and 3D models. Practical training includes 5 hours of drone flights for mapping images and 8 hours of simulations for mapping scenarios and data processing. The course concludes with a skills test involving ground and flight evaluations to certify proficiency in mapping tasks.
Perfect for
Surveyors, engineers, construction professionals, mining specialists, GIS analysts, environmental consultants, archaeological researchers, real estate professionals, urban planners, infrastructure inspectors, and anyone seeking to integrate cutting-edge drone surveying technology into professional mapping and documentation workflows.
Course Structure
Our comprehensive training program consists of four essential phases designed to transform you into a certified remote pilot
Photogrammetry Theory & Principles
Comprehensive foundation in photogrammetric science, surveying principles, and geospatial concepts. Learn the mathematical and technical principles underlying accurate aerial mapping and 3D reconstruction from drone imagery.
Key topics include:
- Photogrammetry fundamentals and historical development
- Camera geometry and lens distortion correction
- Coordinate systems and map projections
- Ground sampling distance (GSD) and resolution concepts
- Stereoscopic vision and parallax principles
- Bundle adjustment and triangulation theory
- Accuracy standards and quality control procedures
- Surveying mathematics and error propagation
- Datum transformation and coordinate conversion
Survey Planning & Ground Control
Advanced training in mission planning, ground control point establishment, and quality assurance protocols essential for professional-grade surveying projects.
Training modules include:
- Survey project planning and client requirements analysis
- Flight planning software and mission design
- Ground control point (GCP) placement strategies
- Survey-grade GPS and total station operation
- Coordinate system selection and project setup
- Quality control checkpoints and validation procedures
- Weather considerations for surveying flights
- Legal and regulatory requirements for surveying
- Client communication and project documentation
Data Acquisition & Processing
Hands-on training in data collection techniques and advanced processing workflows using professional photogrammetry software packages.
Practical training includes:
- Precision flight execution for mapping missions
- Camera calibration and sensor optimization
- Image overlap and coverage verification
- Real-time quality control during data collection
- Professional photogrammetry software operation (Pix4D, Agisoft, etc.)
- Point cloud generation and processing
- Digital surface model (DSM) and digital terrain model (DTM) creation
- Orthomosaic generation and color correction
- Accuracy assessment and quality validation
Professional Deliverables & Certification
Advanced deliverable production, client reporting, and comprehensive skills assessment to ensure competency in professional drone surveying applications.
Assessment components:
- Complete survey project from planning to delivery
- Professional report writing and documentation
- Client presentation and communication skills
- Accuracy analysis and quality assurance procedures
- Practical flight test in surveying environment
- Theoretical examination on photogrammetry principles
- Portfolio development with diverse project types
Requirements
Age Requirement
Be at least 18 years of age
Prerequisite Licenses
RPL MR
Basic understanding of mapping and GIS
What You'll Achieve
Certification Earned
Course completion Certificate
Issuing Authority
Fahari Aviation