Trials of the new Satellite-based Augementation System (SBAS) for improving GPS accuracy have proven very successful according to Airservices Australia.
Airservices worked with Air Affairs Australia to conduct a number of SBAS-enabled instrument approaches and procedures over two days at Mount Hotham, Benalla, Wagga Wagga and Canberra airports. The aircraft used was a Beechcraft King Air 200.
The technology makes Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) signals–such as those coming from the USA's GPS constellation–much more accurate, which should enable ILS-like approaches with both horizontal and vertical guidance at airports not fitted with ILS systems.
Geoscience Australia’s Director of Positioning, Dr John Dawson, said SBAS technology has the potential to transform general aviation in Australia,
“We know from other countries that SBAS technology makes flying safer and more efficient,” he said. “Through the test-bed, we’re identifying what this looks like in an Australian context and how local industry, business and communities can benefit.”
Augementation systems are already available for operations in United States, Europe, China, India and Japan. Airservices Chief Executive Officer Jason Harfield said Australia is now one step closer to joining our own augmentation system.
“This qualitative testing is vital for us to assess SBAS against other systems and provides pilots with the chance to see the benefits of this technology first-hand,” he said.
“It’s another example of how we are collaborating with other government agencies and industry to ensure Australia is at the forefront of aviation technology."