Business Details
39 Years
experience
Expert Aeronautical Surveyors & Geospatial Solutions
Established in 1987, SLC Associates has built a reputation as a global leader in geospatial data provision, specialising in aeronautical surveys and software solutions. With 38 years of operational experience and a presence in 34 countries, our expertise spans WGS-84 aerodrome surveys, electronic terrain and obstacle data (eTOD) management, and obstruction analysis. Our team of seasoned professionals, including directors with decades of industry experience, has developed proprietary software systems like GDMS-Desktop and GDMS-Enterprise to meet evolving aviation industry demands. Accredited to ISO 9001 since 1997, we maintain rigorous quality standards while advancing compliance with international aeronautical regulations. Our work with over 280 airports worldwide demonstrates our commitment to precision and reliability in challenging environments.The company's technical development team continues to innovate safeguarding methodologies, including remote sensing change detection and Airport Mapping Database implementations. Headquartered in Aylesbury, UK, our operations combine field expertise with cutting-edge technology to deliver actionable geospatial intelligence. Our directors bring diverse backgrounds in engineering, combat surveying, and software development, ensuring comprehensive solutions for complex aviation challenges. Through strategic partnerships in India and Africa, we extend our global support capabilities while maintaining direct project oversight. Our long-serving team members, some with over 25 years' tenure, embody institutional knowledge that drives consistent service excellence.
Services
WGS-84 Implementations
Aerodrome Surveys
Geospatial Software
Obstruction Analysis
eTOD Management
Details
- Year established: 1987
Highlights and features
- We have 38 years' experience in aeronautical geospatial data provision
- Our ISO 9001 accreditation ensures quality management standards
- We operate in 34 countries with global project experience
- We develop proprietary software for eTOD management and analysis
- Our team includes specialists with aviation regulatory compliance expertise
Associations and certifications
- ISO 9001
Services
WGS-84 Implementations
We deliver precise WGS-84 aerodrome surveys using advanced geodetic techniques. Our specialists have completed over 280 projects across 34 countries, ensuring compliance with ICAO Annex 14 standards. Our field teams operate in diverse environments, from desert regions to Arctic climates, maintaining millimetric accuracy in coordinate determination for critical aviation infrastructure.
GDMS Software
Our proprietary Geospatial Data Management System handles electronic terrain and obstacle data (eTOD) for aviation authorities worldwide. The software supports 3D aerodrome modelling, obstruction analysis against OLS surfaces, and AIXM format exports. Available as desktop and cloud-based versions, GDMS enables real-time collaboration across 60 global installations while maintaining data integrity through integrated CRC verification.
Obstruction Analysis
We conduct comprehensive obstruction analysis against obstacle limitation surfaces using custom GIS tools. Our systems automatically test obstructions against visible surfaces with configurable reporting formats. The service includes creation of custom safeguarding zones for navigation aids and instrument flight procedures, supporting both regulatory compliance and operational safety assessments.
eTOD Management
Our electronic Terrain and Obstacle Data solutions meet ICAO Annex 15 requirements for aeronautical information services. We create and maintain 3D terrain models with full attribute tagging, supporting automated change detection through remote sensing analysis. The system integrates with airport mapping databases to ensure consistent data representation across operational and planning functions.
Aerodrome Surveys
We provide full-cycle aerodrome surveying services including runway threshold positioning, obstacle limitation surface creation, and gradient analysis. Our surveys incorporate EASA-compliant methodologies for gradient assessments and ICAO Annex 19 safety management systems. Field teams use integrated GNSS and total station equipment to capture data for both regulatory submissions and operational planning purposes.
People
Stephen Card
Director of Operations
Stephen founded SLC Associates in 1987 after 10 years in the Royal Engineers. He leads overseas operations and software development, conducting global GDMS training programs. His military surveying experience informs field operations in challenging environments.
Oliver Bates
Director of Compliance
Oliver oversees aviation projects and regulatory compliance since joining in 2005. He ensures adherence to UK and international aeronautical standards, managing operational procedures updates. His expertise spans both technical surveying and regulatory frameworks.
Christopher Williams
Technical Development Manager
Chris leads software development since 1995, creating AST-Pro and GDMS systems. He manages technical support and new application development, maintaining software compatibility with evolving aviation data standards and operational requirements.
Anna Cisowska
Project Manager
Anna holds a Masters in Geodesy and Cartography. She manages international airport projects across diverse regions including the Middle East and North Africa. Her expertise covers both field surveying and technical project coordination.
Sabina Plavicheanu
Special Projects Manager
Sabina holds a PhD in Aeronautical Geodesy. She develops specialist projects including remote sensing change detection systems and Airport Mapping Database implementations. Her work bridges technical innovation with practical aviation safety applications.
Questions
What aeronautical survey services do you specialise in?
We specialise in WGS-84 aerodrome surveys and obstruction analysis. Our services include electronic terrain and obstacle data management using proprietary GDMS software systems.
How long have you been operating in the aviation sector?
We have worked in the aviation industry for over 37 years, conducting surveys at more than 280 airports worldwide since our 1987 establishment.
What software solutions do you offer for airport data management?
We developed GDMS-Desktop and GDMS-Enterprise for eTOD management. These systems handle 3D aerodrome modelling, obstruction analysis, and AIXM format exports with cloud-based access options.
Are your services compliant with international aviation standards?
We maintain ISO 9001 accreditation since 1997 and work towards ADQ compliance. Our surveys meet ICAO Annex 14 and EASA gradient assessment requirements.
In which regions do you operate?
We operate globally with current projects across 34 countries. Our regional partnerships in India and Africa support localised implementation while maintaining UK headquarters oversight.
