The Photoslope™ process takes the guesswork out of assessing obstructions to runway approach surfaces.

Using ground based terrestrial photography and surveying techniques, the Photoslope process can rapidly and cost effectively determine the condition of State Standard Approach Surfaces, FAR Part 77 Approach Surfaces or TERPs Approach and Missed Approach Surfaces.

The Photoslope process utilizes advanced high-resolution digital photography taken within the designated approach boundary. Images of the approach surface are taken at three separate positions; from the centerline, the left edge of the approach, and the right edge of the approach. Using these photographs, combined with sophisticated computer modeling, obstructions are digitized to determine the precise x, y, and z location. This unique process gives Photoslope the ability to visually display the Runway Approach Surface and identify objects obstructing the approach. The resulting Photoslope report is a precise record of the Approach Surface airspace, containing visual depictions and dimensions of obstructions.

The Photoslope process was initially developed by GCR in 1982 to certify the condition of the runway end approach surface to local, state and federal aviation administrators. Photoslope is now implemented by the FAA, state aeronautics agencies and individual airport managers. Photoslope has been used to photogram-metrically document the status of the Runway Approach Surface to over 3,200 runway ends at over 829 airports throughout the United States.

GCR’s 20-plus years of aviation consulting experience is built into Photoslope, making the Photoslope process an affordable way to meet the FAA requirement for annual confirmation of the status of Approach Surfaces.