The geometric calibration of a mapping camera is important in aerial mapping. A mapping camera should be calibrated before it is used. The fundamental principle and method of the geometric calibration of a mapping camera are analyzed. Then, several methods such as the exact angle measurement, PAMC, Tsai's two stage method, Zhang's method, RCA method and self-calibration method are analyzed in particular. Their accuracy and features are given. The result is helpful to the geometric calibration of airborne mapping cameras in different environment.