OBSTACLE LIMITATION SURFACES PARAMETERS & DIMENSIONS This guide compiles the parameters and dimensional requirements from Amendment 18 to the International Standards and Recommended Practices, Annex 14 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation, Volume I - Aerodrome Design and Operations.
Obstacle Limitation Surfaces (OLS) are imaginary surfaces in the airspace around airports that define limits for the height and placement of obstacles to ensure the safety and efficiency of aircraft operations. They are part of the airport's safeguarding strategy.
Obstacle Limitation Surface Airports must be sited in areas where airspace is free from obstruction that could be hazardous to aircraft turning in the vicinity or on takeoff or approach paths. It is also necessary to maintain the surrounding airspace free from obstacles, preventing the development and growth of obstructions to airspace that could cause the airport to become unusable. The ...
Airport operators and planners will have to adapt to upcoming changes in the long-established ICAO Obstacle Limitation Surface (OLS) regulations. ICAO Annex 14 for Aerodromes is designed to ensure a safe, obstacle-free airport environment. The regulations prescribe Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) on the physical characteristics and OLS for aerodromes, and certain facilities and ...
An Obstacle Limitation Surface (OLS) is a system of imaginary surfaces around an aerodrome that defines the limits above which objects are considered obstacles to aircraft safety. OLS ensures protection during all critical flight phases and is a key regulatory tool in airport planning, design, and operations.
Overview The following article presents an overview of the guidance surrounding Obstacle Limitation Surfaces (OLS) for aerodromes in the UK and worldwide. The most common surface types will be listed, followed by a description of relevant guidance documents. Key similarities and differences from each guidance document are highlighted.