Since 2019, Lantmäteriet has its base for aerial photography at Dala Airport in Borlänge, and during the summer months, almost a third of Sweden's surface is covered each year. The images are used not only for maps, but also in geographical information systems, by authorities, municipalities, companies and private individuals.

- We always have cloud-free and snow-free in our photos, so we are very dependent on fine weather, explains Jenny Gustafsson, who is the function manager for Lantmäteriet's aerial photography business.

"Green light" in the air

Normally, you also have to compete with passenger traffic, but this year the number of passengers in April, for example, Landvetter decreased by 99 percent compared to last year according to Swedavia, and it has been much easier to obtain a permit for the Lantmäteriet.

- It's just been green light. Otherwise, it can be nice weather but full in the airspace, says Jenny Gustafsson.

Now you are already done with the areas over Gothenburg, Gotland, Trollhättan, Mariestad and Arboga. Next, you will fly over Borlänge, Skåne and Blekinge. For the Norrland coast with, for example, Örnsköldsvik, Umeå and Skellefteå, you expect all the snow to disappear.

Waiting for high pressure

The Land Survey procures pilots and planes, but the photographers are their own personnel who have been trained to aerial photographers. In total, around 170 flight days per year are done, and even a minor part of the post-processing is carried out in Borlänge.

Now the question of the clear weather from earlier this spring is coming back.

- It really was a great start to the season. Now in May it has been less good, so we expect with anticipation that it will be high pressure, says Jenny Gustafsson.