3D Map Data for Aviation Terrain Obstacle Database

Intermap Technologies' high-resolution NEXTMap digital elevation data is being used to develop an advanced terrain and obstacle solution in advance of the Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)'s eTOD (Electronic Terrain Obstacle Data) initiative. The process for collecting the NEXTMap dataset is currently undergoing certification by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). NEXTMap data will ultimately enable an eTOD solution, which will help address cross-border harmonisation issues in an effort to satisfy the need for uniformity and consistency in the provision of aeronautical information.

Developed in concert with several European-based air navigation service providers, the solution can potentially reduce the risk of collision with terrain and other obstacles by satisfying new reporting and accuracy requirements within well-defined distances surrounding aerodromes throughout Europe.

Available from the second quarter of 2010, the solution will be compatible with existing planning tools and software, enable low upfront costs to the member states, and provide easy access to a seamless terrain and obstacle database that is centrally located.

"One of the most exciting aspects of helping make this solution available," said Adam Denman, Intermap's vice president and general manager for Europe, "is it will increase the safety of flights for crews and passengers by significantly reducing errors in the terrain and obstacle dataset here in Europe and by removing current issues associated with utilizing data in different coordinate systems from neighboring countries."