How to Create KML Files for Mission Planning

Importing Keyhole Markup Language (KML) files is a great way to complete your mission planning in the office on a larger screen or with a stronger internet connection. 

File requirements

We do not recommend using Trimble Business Center or CAD programs to create KML files for mission planning, as the files can often be too complex to import for the drone software. 

If you already have a KML from Trimble Business Center, we recommend importing the file into Propeller, retracing the boundary, and exporting the traced version for mission planning.

Creating a KML file using the Propeller Platform

To begin, log into your portal and navigate to the site where you will conduct the survey. 

From the Measurement Tools in the Propeller Platform, choose the Polygon option to create a polygon for area surveys or a polyline for linear flight missions. 

Click to drop boundary points, adjusting their positions as needed.

📍🗺️ TIP: If any design files are loaded into the site, you can plan your mission around the existing design files.

ou can save the measurement if you want, but it is not necessary to export a KML.

How to export a KML without saving your measurement 

Right-click on the polygon you just created and select Export.

Choose Outline from the export options and KML as the file type. Click EXPORT. The file will automatically download to your computer.

How to export a KML after saving your measurement 

If you want to save the polygon you drew for the KML export, simply give it a name and click SAVE. 

Click on the Download Icon.

Choose Outline from the export options and KML as the file type. Click EXPORT. The file will automatically download to your computer.

Alternatively, click the three dots menu next to the measurement you want to export in the MEASURE tab.

Choose Outline from the export options and KML as the file type. Click EXPORT. The file will automatically download to your computer.

For more details on the next steps, refer to our Importing and Exporting Missions with DJI Pilot 2 article.

Creating a KML file using Google Earth

When importing multiple polygons as a single KML file, you can select each layer individually after tapping the Start Mission button. This approach is especially useful for large sites where surveying the entire area in one session may not be feasible. By predefining multiple mission areas, you can quickly select the necessary sections without manually redrawing them.

Creating a KML File for Mission Planning

Follow these steps to create and export a KML file using Google Earth:

1. Open Google Earth and navigate to the mission area.

2. Define the mission boundary using Google Earth tools:

• • Use the Polygon tool for 2D photogrammetry missions.

  • Use the Path tool for linear mission planning.

  • Adjust boundary points by clicking and dragging them as needed.

  • The order in which you place points affects the mission's start point. The GS RTK system will attempt to set the mission start near the second point in the KML file.  

3. Save the polygon or path as a KML file.

4. Export the KML file to your computer for use in your mission planning software.

Organizing mission areas in a single KML file simplifies mission selection, saving time and improving workflow efficiency.

For the next steps, please see this article on Importing and Exporting Missions with DJI Pilot 2.