The Role of Satellites in Aircraft Navigation

Abstract

A Joint Navigation Satellite Committee has been formed to determine the potential for a common satellite system to meet the needs of various agencies. As a potential aid to air traffic, satellites would appear to be most effectively used in cooperation with ground stations at which measurement and computation would be made. Possible user benefits include more effective communications, more reliable and possibly less expensive airborne navigation equipment, reduced diversions and delays, obstacle avoidance capability, more effective emergency warnings, and reduction of communication traffic. For the provider States benefits may include more reliable communications, reduction in number of control centres, improved data collection and distribution capability, reduction in number of facilities, and improved search and rescue capability. A systematic approach to long-range goals is indicated.