Geospatial Intelligence Fuels Hong Kong’s Low Altitude Economy

Lands Department (LandsD) is at the forefront of advancing Low Altitude Economy (LAE) by leveraging the advanced geospatial intelligence. Survey and Mapping Office (SMO) of LandsD has been maintaining the territory wide satellite positioning infrastructure, deploying airplane/drone for high/low altitude aerial survey and applying spatial analytical capabilities in the Geographic Information System (GIS) over decades.

Released in phases since 2022, the 3D Digital Map, a core component of the digital infrastructure underpinning Hong Kong's smart city development, has now become territory-wide. By integrating LandsD’s 2D & 3D Digital Maps and other open spatial data available on Common Spatial Data Infrastructure (CSDI) Portal, LandsD has established a solid foundation to help driving the LAE development in Hong Kong, particularly in high-precision 3D Digital Maps, pre-flight spatial analysis & evaluation, real-time positioning, drone control & management, as well as the development of geospatial portals. LandsD has provided solid support to the Government’s “Regulatory Sandbox” pilot projects by bringing the following benefits:

• Comprehensive Pre-Flight Planning: Utilize 2D and 3D spatial analytical capabilities in GIS to facilitate the assessment of flight parameters, helping operators identify potential obstacles or hazards and optimize their flight plans.
• Accurate Positioning Infrastructure: Offer Network Real-Time Kinematic services, ensuring accurate and uninterrupted positioning for UAV operations, thereby enhancing flight accuracy and reliability.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Geospatial intelligence empowers informed, evidence-based decisions, enhancing efficiency and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.

Moving forward, LandsD remains committed to supporting LAE initiatives by deepening collaboration with stakeholders, enhancing geospatial capabilities within its GIS and positioning framework, reinforcing the Government’s ability to build a smarter, safer, and scalable low-altitude economy in Hong Kong.

Please click here for Geospatial Information Services provided by LandsD.

[Acknowledgement to LandsD for providing material for the story.]