Benefits of GPS and Aerial Mapping
Aerial mapping has never been easier now that aircraft GPS are available. And, those who have invested in a Garmin Aviation GPS have done so because they are aware of the importance of always being locked to the GPS satellites when surveying and mapping. For accurate aerial mapping it is of utmost importance to retain a lock on the GPS satellites at all times. Not doing so, even for a half a second, will result in degradation of the accuracy of the measurements. Since this is such a big issue Garmin Avionics makes it easier for aerial mapping to be accurate by providing plane GPS antennas that create a constant lock on the satellites. This improves accuracy as well as decreases costs. The reason costs are reduced is because the constant lock on the satellites makes it easy for the plane to turn quickly and continue a flight line.
There is no need to make ten degree bank turns to stay connected to the GPS satellites when there is an antenna on the plane. This reduces flight time by almost half, in many cases, and it also saves a great deal of fuel and pilot time. Overall, surveys will be cheaper as a result.