CASA media release - Tuesday 17 July 2007
Safer instrument navigation on the way
A key step is being taken in the development of new and safer instrument navigation systems for Australian aircraft.
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority has commissioned a special study to find the most suitable and cost effective technology to deliver improved navigation using the Global Navigation Satellite System.
The study will look at options for introducing Global Navigation Satellite System Approaches with Vertical Guidance.
This is an instrument navigation system that builds on the current satellite-based navigation system by giving pilots guidance about altitude during landings.
According to the International Civil Aviation Organization approaches with vertical guidance can be eight times safer than current straight-in approaches.
Australia has been involved in international work to develop standards for vertical guidance for a number of years, although at this stage there is no direction from the International Civil Aviation Organization on what type should be used.
CASA was asked by the Aviation Policy Group – a peak Government aviation advisory group consisting of the heads of CASA, Airservices Australia, the Department of Transport and Regional Services and the Air Force- to review available technology and conduct a cost benefit study. A consultant, Booz Allen Hamilton, has been selected to do this work.
The Booz Allen Hamilton study will take about six months to complete and findings will be presented to the aviation industry, as well as the Aviation Policy Group.
Ian Mallett, a CASA navigation systems expert, says instrument approaches that give pilots vertical guidance provide significant safety, operational and environmental benefits.
“Benefits include safer approach path guidance, simpler approach procedures and lower minimum descent altitudes in adverse weather,” Mr Mallett says.
“The major airlines, with the advanced navigation technologies of their ‘new generation' aircraft such as the Boeing 737-800, are already using this type of approach around Australia and overseas.
“It is now time to make vertical guidance available to anyone with the technology in their aircraft and the training to fly using the instruments.
“But to do this the industry must decide on the types of augmentation systems to be deployed in Australia.”
For more information on the Booz Allen Hamilton study and Approaches with Vertical Guidance go to: www.casa.gov.au/newrules/airspace/apv.htm
Media contact:
Peter Gibson
mobile 0419 296 446
Ref: MR0741