PCI surveys undertaken in accordance with relevant guidance (DIO/ASTM/STAC etc), are the industry standard in aviation for visually assessing the condition of pavements. During a PCI evaluation, visible signs of deterioration and defects are characterised in terms of type, severity, and quantity of the distress. This information is then used to develop a composite index (PCI number) that represents the overall condition of the pavement in numerical terms, ranging from 0 (failed) to 100 (good).
PCI benefits and applications include:
- Assess pavement condition - by identifying and quantifying visible surface distresses such as cracking, raveling, rutting, and patching
- Support maintenance and rehabilitation planning - by helping airports prioritise repairs, schedule resurfacing, and allocate budgets efficiently
- Track pavement deterioration over time - allowing data-driven decisions and performance monitoring
- Ensure airfield safety and regulatory compliance - confirming that surfaces remain suitable for aircraft loading and operations
Supporting safety and innovation in PCI survey delivery
We utilise state-of-the-art Multi-Functional Vehicles (MFVs), which bring together the best in GPS, image-capture, AI analysis, and laser scanning technology, to deliver detailed and automated assessments of runways, taxiways, aprons and associated infrastructure.
- 3D data is exactly what we offer, we go beyond simple visual interpretation of surface condition and utilise sensor technology to provide 3-dimensional profiles of the pavement
- We utilise advanced laser profilers delivering accurate ride quality, texture, rutting, and roughness measurements
- We apply Automatic Distress Detection (ADD) technology, which applies sophisticated algorithms to the 3D data and image-based AI system, to deliver precise and repeatable distress measurements
We also supplement automated PCI surveys with manual surveys where required to ensure 100% survey coverage. These surveys are undertaken by experienced pavement engineers. Ultimately, a Pavement Condition Index (PCI) survey is designed to provide a quantitative, consistent, and objective measure of pavement surface condition, forming a core component of airport and airfield infrastructure asset management. By automating this process, we are able to provide safer, more efficient, and more cost effective PCI survey solutions.
Visual Condition Surveys (VCS)
CS 229 Visual Condition Surveys (VCS) assess pavement surface condition in line with National Highways standards, providing a consistent, systematic approach to identifying and recording surface defects. These surveys, undertaken in conjunction with other surveys such as GPR, FWD and coring, support effective maintenance planning, performance monitoring, and long-term asset management.
Traditionally, VCS were undertaken on foot, often making surveys time-consuming and costly, with traffic management required to ensure the safety of inspectors. At XAIS-PTS, we deliver VCS using our Multi-Functional Vehicles (MFVs), which are equipped with 2nd generation Laser Crack Measurement Systems (LCMS2) and high-resolution imagery. These advanced sensors capture detailed 2D imagery and 3D pavement surface profiles at traffic-speed, enhancing survey efficiency, accuracy, and safety.
SPACER
Data is then analysed by pavement engineering specialists, with defects recorded using precise geo-referenced coordinates in accordance with CS 229. Supporting outputs — site sheets, schematic defect drawings, and photographic records — provide a clear, comprehensive view of pavement condition, enabling targeted maintenance and timely repair. As our VCS are completed through a machine-based method, we can also supplement standard VCS outputs with a variety of added value datasets such as GIS defect layers and geo-referenced web-hosted video.
Why choose XAIS-PTS?
At XAIS-PTS our team has a wealth of experience, and we deliver comprehensive pavement investigations across major airport and airfield infrastructure. We also deliver a wide variety of asset management surveys, software, professional services, programme development & design, materials testing, and certification services.
If you have any questions or queries about our services, please contact us today – our team will be more than happy to have a conversation with you regarding your project requirements!