CASA Media Release - 7 June 1999
Rockhampton airport safer thanks to satellites
Rockhampton Airport is set to become safer and more efficient as a result of the latest satellite navigation technology.
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) is validating a new set of procedures for Rockhampton Airport that will allow pilots to use Global Positioning System (GPS) navigation.
Pilots use GPS instruments - which determine positions through satellite signals - to accurately navigate while flying enroute and during landings.
During landings GPS navigation instruments allow qualified pilots to make simpler and safer approaches to airports.
Pilots using GPS to land at Rockhampton Airport will fly in a straight line towards the runway rather than making a circling approach - cutting flying time, saving fuel and reducing noise in surrounding areas.
CASA's Assistant Director Aviation Safety Promotion, Mike Smith, says GPS is smart technology that is being used by more and more pilots.
"Satellite technology will make flying into Rockhampton Airport simpler for pilots and safer for everybody," Mr Smith says.
"Pilots who are qualified to use this technology can navigate more accurately and can usually restrict the areas they need to fly over at low levels when landing.
"GPS navigation is being gradually introduced at regional airports around the nation and will be available at Rockhampton within weeks."
To introduce GPS navigation CASA pilots are undertaking low level test flying this Tuesday (8 June) on the approaches to Rockhampton Airport.
CASA pilots will be flying a Baron aircraft (VH-WLC) over the fringe of the city, avoiding as much as possible the central business area. The flights will begin at 11.00 am and last for about five hours.
CASA apologises for any inconvenience.
Media contact
Peter Gibson
ph 02 6217 1015
mobile 0419 296 446
Ref: ME9920PR