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ICAO ANNEX 14 AMENDMENT 18

New Obstacle Limitation Surfaces (OLS)

In August 2025, ICAO adopted Amendment 18 to Annex 14, introducing a modern, performance-based Obstacle Limitation Surfaces (OLS) framework, applicable globally from 21 November 2030.

What the New OLS Means for Aerodromes in Brunei Darussalam

The changes affect all aerodromes in Brunei Darussalam and stakeholders involved in aerodrome safeguarding, obstacle assessment, and airspace protection. The new framework replaces traditional OLS with an operations-driven approach aligned with modern aircraft, navigation, and procedure design.

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Required Aerodrome Actions

Aerodromes and local planning authorities will need to prepare for transition ahead of the 2030 applicability date by executing key operational updates:

  • Update safeguarding maps and digital airspace models
  • Assess impacts on development proposals and planning safeguarding processes
  • Coordinate closely with local planning authorities
  • Review existing obstacles and update obstacle databases
  • Implement new Aeroplane Design Group (ADG)-based surface modelling
  • Plan for transition ahead of 2030 applicability
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Impacts & Protected Volumes

Understanding the operational shifts introduced under the new performance-based framework:

  • Protected Volumes: Some protected areas will expand, while others will reduce based on operational design.
  • Safeguarding Burdens: May reduce safeguarding burdens in certain areas, while expanding them in others.
  • RPAS / UAS Operations: Affects authorized activities for Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems and drones within airport safeguarding zones.
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New Concept of Obstacle Limitation Surfaces (OLS) 20 Nov 2030

We strongly recommend downloading and reviewing the new OLS concept from Amendment 18 to Annex 14 Volume I, Chapter 4 (Obstacle Restriction and Removal) to fully understand the framework, applicability, and compliance requirements.

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Contact Us

Should you require additional information or clarification regarding the new OLS framework, safeguarding procedures, or regulatory compliance requirements, please contact us for further assistance.