A thermal scanner in the 2-μm waveband is used for airborne studies of urban temperature patterns. The urban geometry is modelled by the Sky View-Factor (SVF). Comparisons of surface temperature and SVF show a good correlation. The largest difference in surface temperature (4°C) was recorded between dense canyons and open areas. Ground measurements correspond well with the temperature calculated from the infrared images. Different examples of inlra-urban thermal variations and the utility of the instrument and software for the determination of differences in temperature arc discussed.