Today is 35 years since Airport Coordination Limited was formed as the world’s first independent airport slot coordinator.
Founded in 1991 in response to growing congestion and the need for a neutral, independent approach to slot coordination, ACL began by supporting a small number of UK airports and helping establish a fairer system for allocating scarce capacity.
Over the decades, we have grown in tandem with the aviation industry, from a team of just ten to nearly fifty specialists today. Alongside PDC, we have paved the way for greater automation and improved reporting, culminating in the creation of our Online Coordination System (OCS). Designed to provide airlines with instant responses and avoid unnecessary delays, OCS is now used worldwide by over 30 coordinators, 300 operators, and up to 1,000 users.
The coordination of the London 2012 Olympic Games marked the start of ACL’s work in Special Event Coordination. Since then, ACL have been the coordinator of choice for a multitude of global events, including the UEFA Champions League, Six Nations rugby, G20, NATO Heads of State meetings, the FIFA World Cup, the Hajj pilgrimage, UNFCCC COP and CHOGM. In 2014, ACL International was established, enabling us to expand our coordination services globally while maintaining the integrity of our non‑profit work in the UK.
ACL now supports nearly 80 airports globally, helping partners navigate increasingly complex operational and regulatory environments. From our offices around the world, our teams work closely with industry stakeholders, contributing to the development of legislation aimed at delivering balanced and effective outcomes for all.
CEO Neil Garwood says “Reaching 35 years feels a little like moving from youth into a confident middle age, with the benefit of experience alongside our sense of purpose. What matters most to us are the airports and airlines we serve, of every size, who rely on effective slot coordination. We’re proud of what we’ve helped our partners achieve over the years and remain focused on supporting the industry through the challenges that lie ahead.”
As we celebrate 35 years, we remain grateful of the trust placed in us by airports, airlines, and industry partners – and of the people whose expertise and commitment continue to drive our company and our industry forward.
