Visuols-oaci

Software for the Representation of Obstacle Limitation Surfaces (OLS)

In 2024, at the request of the ICAO Obstacle Limitation Surface Task Force (OLSTF), the French Civil Aviation Technical Center (STAC) began developing a software tool designed to generate the Obstacle Limitation Surfaces (OLS) of an aerodrome in accordance with ICAO Annex 14, Amendments 17 and 18.
This tool, named VisuOLS, has continuously evolved thanks to contributions from OLSTF members and its French development team. Its primary purpose is to support the analysis and visualization of OLS for aerodrome planning and safety assessments.
VisuOLS provides a wide range of functionalities, including:

• Rapid 3D visualization of all OLS associated with an aerodrome.

• Computation of surface penetrations by user provided obstacles.

By offering a clear, accurate, and interactive representation of OLS and potential obstacle impacts, VisuOLS supports aerodrome operators, local authorities, and project developers in managing obstacles around aerodromes.

The software is available for direct download from this page and is accompanied by a user manual.

Users are encouraged to regularly check this page to ensure they are working with the most recent version of the software.

For any questions or feedback regarding VisuOLS, please contact the development team at:
📧 stac-visuols-bf@aviation-civile.gouv.fr

Important Notes

• VisuOLS requires Microsoft Excel 2010 or later, and macros must be enabled.

• The software is compatible with Windows (Versions 10 or 11) and Mac (Versions Sequoia and Tahoe).

• As the file is downloaded from an external source, Excel may display a security warning when opening it for the first time. This warning is related to the presence of macros and is normal. It does not compromise the security of your computer or the integrity of the software.

Disclaimer
VisuOLS is a decision support tool.
The results it provides have no legal value, and the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) cannot be held responsible for any errors, misinterpretations, or misuse of the software.

VisuOLS software download link

VisuOLS User Manual