Drone technology has transformed the surveying and mapping industry, enabling faster, safer, and more accurate data collection. Among these advanced methods, RTK, PPK, and Aerial LiDAR stand out as the leading solutions for high-precision survey projects. However, each method has its own accuracy levels, workflow, and best-use scenarios.

In this blog, we explain the accuracy differences between RTK, PPK, and Aerial LiDAR — helping you choose the right technology for your project.

What is RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) in Drone Survey?

How RTK Works

RTK drones receive real-time correction signals from a GNSS base station or a CORS network. This allows the drone to generate accurate geotagged images instantly during flight.

Accuracy of RTK Drone Surveys

• Horizontal Accuracy: 1–3 cm

• Vertical Accuracy: 2–5 cm

• Best for:
  ✓ Construction site surveys
  ✓ Road & rail alignment
  ✓ Topographic mapping
  ✓ Agriculture mapping

Advantages of RTK

• Real-time corrections

• Faster field workflow

• Fewer ground control points (GCPs)

Limitations of RTK

• Requires stable internet or radio link

• Signal obstruction may reduce accuracy

What is PPK (Post-Processing Kinematic) in Drone Survey?

How PPK Works

In PPK, corrections are applied after the flight using recorded satellite data. This removes the dependency on live connections, making the process more reliable in remote or challenging environments.

Accuracy of PPK Drone Surveys

• Horizontal Accuracy: 2–4 cm

• Vertical Accuracy: 3–6 cm

• Best for:
  ✓ Mining surveys
  ✓ Corridor mapping
  ✓ Remote area surveying
  ✓ Forest or hilly terrain mapping

Advantages of PPK

• No dependency on live signal

• More stable and reliable data

• Excellent for long-distance surveys

Limitations of PPK

• Takes more time due to post-processing

• Requires high-quality log files and workflow knowledge

What is Aerial LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging)?

How LiDAR Works

Aerial LiDAR uses a laser scanner to send thousands of laser pulses per second toward the ground. These pulses bounce back to create a dense 3D point cloud, making LiDAR ideal for mapping complex terrains and vegetation.

Accuracy of Aerial LiDAR Surveys

• Horizontal Accuracy: 1–3 cm

• Vertical Accuracy: 3–10 cm, depending on system

• Best for:
  ✓ Dense forest mapping
  ✓ Utility & powerline inspection
  ✓ Highway & railway corridor mapping
  ✓ Land deformation and mining volumetrics
  ✓ River, flood, and terrain mapping

Advantages of Aerial LiDAR

• Penetrates vegetation

• Generates millions of data points

• Highly accurate terrain models

• Works in low-light conditions

Limitations of LiDAR

• Higher cost

• Requires specialized equipment and trained professionals

RTK vs PPK vs Aerial LiDAR: Accuracy Comparison Table

Which Technology Should You Choose?

Choosing the right survey method depends on:
✔ Project terrain type
✔ Required accuracy
✔ Vegetation density
✔ Budget and timelines

Recommended by Garud Survey Private Limited

• Choose RTK → For construction, roads, and small/medium mapping projects.

• Choose PPK → For remote areas, large corridors, and mining sites.

• Choose Aerial LiDAR → For forest areas, elevation-critical projects, and complex terrain.

Why Choose Garud Survey Private Limited?

Garud Survey Pvt. Ltd. is one of India’s leading drone surveying companies, offering:

• High-precision RTK, PPK, and LiDAR surveys

• Government-approved drone operations

• Skilled survey pilots and engineers

• Fast data delivery with 100% accuracy assurance

• PAN-India surveying services

Whether you need land mapping, industrial inspection, infrastructure monitoring, or topographic surveying—our expert team provides accurate, reliable, and cost-effective solutions.

Final Thoughts

RTK, PPK, and Aerial LiDAR each serve different purposes and deliver excellent accuracy when used correctly. Understanding their differences ensures you select the best technology for your project.

For high-precision drone survey services in India, trust Garud Survey Private Limited to deliver excellence with cutting-edge drone technology.