System and software applications are evolving rapidly, especially in busy airport hubs across the country serving 2.7 million Americans daily. So how do we maintain public safety in areas that are this crowded? By consistently innovating our products and utilizing them in scenarios related to public safety and security. One way Faith Group is reshaping aviation security is through the utilization of LiDAR, a remote sensor system capable of capturing highly detailed 3D models of real-world objects and environments.
The financial stakes of accurate infrastructure documentation cannot be overstated. A study by Autodesk and FMI highlights that inadequate project data and communication errors contribute to 48% of all construction rework in the U.S., representing an estimated global industry loss of $88.69 billion due to rework. This staggering cost underscores the critical importance of precise pre-construction surveying and documentation in complex environments like airports.
This article will explore the diverse applications of LiDAR technology in airport environments, from security and traffic management to emergency preparedness. We’ll then examine how LiDAR and photogrammetry work together as powerful surveying tools that integrate seamlessly with commissioning (Cx) software platforms, providing the accurate baseline data essential for successful airport infrastructure projects. Finally, we’ll outline a practical six-phase approach to implementing comprehensive survey scanning operations that deliver the precision and efficiency modern airport projects demand.
LiDAR Use Cases In Airport Environments
There are many variables that come into play when considering security and the flow of people throughout an airport, and LiDAR technology is instrumental in addressing these challenges. The versatility of this technology enables multiple applications that enhance both operational efficiency and passenger safety.
Traffic Flow and Curbside Analytics In situations with high vehicle traffic outside of airport terminals, LiDAR can be utilized for curbside analytics, detailing the total number of vehicles capable of being parked. LiDAR sensors deployed on the exterior of airport facility monitor the arrival and departure of vehicles, tracking overall traffic flow patterns. Whenever this influx of traffic reaches extreme highs, airport employees can be deployed to these congested areas to keep the flow of traffic moving, ensuring more vehicles are able to drop off passengers efficiently.
Asset Tracking and Resource Optimization LiDAR excels at asset tracking, such as pinpointing designated areas to retrieve wheelchairs for disabled individuals needing assistance. The technology can highlight wheelchair ADA access points to determine the number of wheelchairs always needed in specific zones, which in turn optimizes resource allocation and streamlines airport operations in drop-off areas.
Emergency Preparedness and Response LiDAR technology is invaluable for enhancing airport security and emergency preparedness in the event of natural disasters. By generating accurate 3D models of the airport environment, LiDAR can develop simulations that track the movement of people in real-time and identify optimal evacuation routes for passengers in congested airport zones. This “digital twin” of the airport allows personnel to run “what-if” scenarios in software for events like fires, earthquakes, or other extreme circumstances. LiDAR can then be integrated with the Airport Emergency Plan (AEP), providing a platform for personnel to test emergency response factors to mitigate harm to passengers in any future airport emergencies.
Targeted Messaging and Passenger Guidance LiDAR’s capabilities extend to both security management and targeted advertising in airport hubs. By tracking crowd levels and people flow between zones, LiDAR makes digital advertising more efficient by adjusting relevant content so it reaches the right audience at the right time. Additionally, LiDAR technology can direct passengers to the nearest exit points in their zones by providing real-time guidance based on their location.
These use case scenarios highlight LiDAR’s power in optimizing security and safety systems while increasing the overall airport experience for airline passengers. However, one of the most critical applications of LiDAR technology lies in its surveying capabilities, which form the foundation for all successful airport infrastructure projects.
LiDAR and Photogrammetry for Survey Work
Before any major construction, renovation, or security upgrade project can begin, accurate documentation of existing conditions is essential. Every construction project encounters deviations from the initial plans, challenging contractors to maintain an up-to-date log of all the adjustments and corrections applied throughout the construction phase. Traditional survey methods often fall short in capturing the complexity and detail of modern infrastructure.
Understanding the Technologies
Pre-construction survey work has evolved from manual measurement techniques using rods, chains, and compasses to sophisticated digital capture methodologies. Modern airports present unique challenges with expansive terminal buildings, complex airfield infrastructure, and critical security requirements that demand millimeter-level accuracy combined with comprehensive spatial documentation.
Photogrammetry excels in capturing high-resolution visual data of textured surfaces, building facades, and areas with clear line-of-sight visibility. The technology utilizes specialized software to stitch together each photograph, enabling the creation of detailed orthophoto maps, digital surface models (DSMs), and photorealistic 3D models with texture, shape, and color information.
LiDAR technology complements photogrammetry by providing active laser-based measurement capabilities that function independently of lighting conditions and can penetrate vegetation coverage to reveal underlying terrain features. The system emits hundreds of thousands of pulses per second which are reflected off surfaces to generate detailed point cloud data with exceptional vertical accuracy down to 3 centimeters. This active sensing approach proves invaluable for documenting complex airport infrastructure where traditional photogrammetric methods might be limited by shadows, reflective surfaces, or obstructed views.
Tools and Equipment
The modern approach to pre-construction surveying employs a hybrid methodology that leverages both photogrammetry and LiDAR technologies to maximize accuracy while optimizing cost and time efficiency.
Ground Scanning Equipment:
- LiBackpack Systems: Mobile LiDAR units that enable comprehensive surveying of complex indoor and outdoor environments where traditional terrestrial scanners face accessibility constraints
- Handheld LiDAR Scanners: Portable devices for detailed capture of specific features and hard-to-reach areas
- Terrestrial Laser Scanners: High-precision stationary systems for detailed structural documentation
Aerial Platforms:
- Drones with LiDAR: Efficient documentation of large outdoor areas, parking structures, and airfield infrastructure
- Multi-Drone Photogrammetry: Coordinated aerial image capture for comprehensive site coverage
Photogrammetry Equipment:
- DSLR Cameras and Tripods: Professional-grade terrestrial photogrammetry for detailed architectural documentation
- Specialized Photogrammetry Software: Advanced processing systems for point cloud generation and 3D model creation
Common Scanning Techniques
Strategic placement of ground control points provides the geometric framework for accurate georeferencing. Survey-grade GNSS equipment establishes primary control points with submeter accuracy, while secondary control markers provide a lower level of precision, but combined provide adequate coverage across the entire survey area. Data collection for photogrammetry requires careful attention to camera stability and image overlap ratios, typically 75-80% forward overlap and 60-65% side overlap to maintain complete coverage and optimal post-processing workflows.
Integration with Cx Software
Three-dimensional survey assets can be imported and integrated into popular construction planning software platforms like ProCore and specialized commissioning applications. The result is centralized data management, progressive tracking through project phases, and ease of validation against as-built documentation. This integration enables seamless workflows from initial survey through final commissioning, ensuring all stakeholders work from the same accurate baseline data.
Data Flow Between Survey Data and Cx Platforms
This streamlined data flow ensures that accurate survey data flows seamlessly from field collection through final project delivery, maintaining data integrity and enabling real-time project coordination across all stakeholders.
Six-Phase Approach to Planning a Survey Scan
The implementation of a comprehensive pre-construction survey begins with detailed mission planning that considers site-specific conditions, accuracy requirements, and project deliverable specifications. Optimal accuracy relies on meticulous route planning, consistent equipment handling, and post-processing techniques. Surveyors can use a LiBackpack (LiDAR), a DSLR (photogrammetry), or both devices in combination, dependent upon project requirements.
Phase 1: Pre-Survey Planning and Coordination Site reconnaissance begins with reviewing existing CAD drawings, site plans, and any available as-built documentation to identify critical features requiring capture and potential obstacles or restricted areas. Coordination with facility operations allows for safe access while minimizing disruption to ongoing construction activities. Weather conditions, air traffic restrictions, and security protocols must be evaluated to determine optimal survey timing.
Phase 2: Equipment Selection and Calibration Technology selection depends on project requirements. For indoor spaces with complex layouts, a combination of LiDAR and photogrammetry provide optimal detail capture. Aerial platforms equipped with photogrammetry sensors or LiDAR systems efficiently document large outdoor areas, parking structures, and airfield infrastructure.
Phase 3: Ground Control Establishment Strategic placement of ground control points provides the geometric framework for accurate georeferencing. Survey-grade GNSS equipment establishes primary control points with submeter accuracy, while secondary control markers provide adequate coverage across the entire survey area with particular attention to elevation variations and spatial extent.
Phase 4: Data Capture Operations Data collection for photogrammetry requires careful attention to camera stability and image overlap ratios, typically 75-80% forward overlap and 60-65% side overlap for complete coverage and optimal post-processing workflows. Planned routes for operations while maintaining flexibility for terrestrial complications can aid in clean data capture. LiDAR operations should focus on maintaining consistent positioning and velocity to achieve uniform point density across the survey area.
Phase 5: Quality Assurance and Data Processing Most LiDAR and photogrammetry software enable real-time quality checks which help identify potential gaps or accuracy issues. Post-processing workflows transform raw imagery and point cloud data into usable survey products through photogrammetric triangulation, point cloud classification, and geometric correction procedures. Advanced processing techniques include trajectory alignment for LiDAR data and bundle adjustment for photogrammetry for optimal accuracy across the entire dataset.
Phase 6: Integration with Cx Software Three-dimensional survey assets can be imported and integrated into popular construction planning software. The result is centralized data management, progressive tracking through project phases, and ease of validation against as-built documentation. Digital surveys enable rapid data capture, reduced physical site visits, and swift collaborative access, proving to be a useful tool to consider before and during commissioning work.
Conclusion
The integration of LiDAR technology in airport settings provides airports and passengers with the necessary capabilities to aid in overall efficiency in the physical security and safety realms of aviation. From analyzing curbside traffic flow and streamlined asset tracking to detailed “digital twin” simulations and targeted messaging, the diversity of LiDAR’s applications can address many issues seen in modern airport hubs daily.
When combined with advanced photogrammetry techniques and integrated with commissioning software platforms, LiDAR becomes an even more powerful tool for comprehensive project management. The six-phase approach outlined in this article provides a practical framework for implementing survey scanning operations that deliver the precision and efficiency modern airport projects demand, while the proven ROI benefits—including the potential to avoid the $88.69 billion in global rework costs—make these technologies essential investments for any serious airport infrastructure project.
Faith Group stands ready to implement these advanced surveying and integration solutions for airport clients seeking to modernize their infrastructure documentation and commissioning processes. Our comprehensive service offering begins with detailed project consultation to assess site-specific requirements and determine the optimal combination of LiDAR and photogrammetry technologies for each unique airport environment. Our certified survey teams deploy state-of-the-art equipment including LiBackpack mobile systems, terrestrial laser scanners, and professional photogrammetry rigs to capture millimeter-accurate existing conditions data across terminal buildings, airfield infrastructure, and security zones.
Beyond data capture, Faith Group provides end-to-end integration services that transform raw survey data into actionable project assets within commissioning software platforms like ProCore, CxAlloy, and specialized BIM environments. Our technical specialists handle the complete workflow from point cloud processing and photogrammetric modeling through CAD/BIM integration and final platform deployment. This turnkey approach ensures that project teams receive fully georeferenced, quality-assured digital assets that seamlessly integrate with existing project management workflows, enabling immediate use for construction planning, security system integration, and ongoing facility management.
Faith Group will continue to be at the forefront of leveraging LiDAR technology through our firm’s overall commitment to innovation and creativity in the aviation industry. As airports continue to become more dynamic, our strategic implementation of LiDAR and integrated survey technologies will prove their significance in public welfare while optimizing travel experiences for all passengers.
Sources:
“Advanced Airport Security Technology: Enhance Safety with LiDAR Solutions.” Blickfeld, 4 Feb. 2025, www.blickfeld.com/applications/security/airports/.
“As-Built Laser Scanning Services – ATT Metrology Solutions.” ATT Metrology Solutions, 18 July 2024, www.attinc.com/services/as-built-laser-scanning/.
“How 3D LiDAR Transforms Airports.” Outsight, 16 July 2024, insights.outsight.ai/why-3d-lidar-is-a-transformative-technology-for-airports/.
“LiBackpack DGC50H Backpack Laser Scanning – GreenValley International.” GreenValley International, www.greenvalleyintl.com/LiBackpackDGC50H/.
“LiDAR vs. Photogrammetry: The Ultimate Showdown for 3D Mapping (2025).” JOUAV, 6 Feb. 2025, www.jouav.com/blog/lidar-vs-photogrammetry.html.
“LIDAR vs. photogrammetry : what sensor to choose for a given application.” Wingtra, wingtra.com/lidar-drone/lidar-vs-photogrammetry-what-sensor-to-choose/.
“Ground Control Points.” U.S. Geological Survey, www.usgs.gov/landsat-missions/ground-control-points.
“3D LiDAR for Airports – Quanergy Solutions Inc.” Quanergy Solutions, 4 Mar. 2025, quanergy.com/applications/crowd-management/3d-lidar-for-airports/.
Chris Fasano, CxA
Commissioning Manager
Christopher.fasano@faithgroupllc.com