A status quo in aerial photogrammetric mapping

Abstract. Aerial photogrammetric 3D mapping refers to the process of capturing overlapping imagery - and increasingly, LiDAR data - via aerial platforms such as unmanned and manned aircraft, followed by computational processing to generate precise 3D representations of urban environments, infrastructure and natural landscapes. In recent years, the field has undergone significant transformation, driven by advancements in imaging technology, including larger and more sensitive sensors, the deployment of multi-camera systems and the integration of photogrammetry with LiDAR. These developments have been accompanied by increasing automation in feature detection, semantic segmentation and both 2D and 3D object classification. This paper aims to provide a critical review of the current state-of-the-art in sensor technologies and multi-sensor integration strategies. It highlights key technological innovations and evolving methodologies that are reshaping aerial 3D mapping practices and influencing both industry standards and market dynamics.