DGCA conducts first satellite-based landing system approach on jet aircraft in India using GAGAN

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has successfully conducted India’s first satellite-based landing system (SLS) approach on a jet aircraft.

• The demonstration was carried out on an Airbus A320 operated by IndiGo at Maharana Pratap Airport.
• The approach used the GAGAN (GPS Aided GEO Augmented Navigation) system, jointly developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation and the Airports Authority of India.
• The aircraft successfully executed a Localiser Performance with Vertical Guidance (LPV) approach, marking a major milestone in extending satellite-based precision navigation to jet aircraft operations.
• Until now, LPV procedures in India had been limited to turboprop aircraft; this is the first successful demonstration on a jet aircraft.

What is a Satellite-Based Landing System (SLS)?

• SLS is a satellite-based precision approach and landing system that uses Satellite-Based Augmentation System (SBAS) corrections to improve the accuracy, integrity, and reliability of GPS signals.
• It enables aircraft to conduct precision-like approaches without relying on expensive ground-based navigation equipment.

Advantages

• Reduces dependence on conventional Instrument Landing Systems (ILS).
• Enables precision approaches at airports lacking costly ILS infrastructure.
• Improves flight safety and operational efficiency, especially during poor visibility.
• Lowers infrastructure and maintenance costs for airports.
• Enhances accessibility to regional and remote airports.

About GAGAN

• GAGAN (GPS Aided GEO Augmented Navigation) is India’s Satellite-Based Augmentation System (SBAS).
• It has been jointly developed by ISRO and AAI to provide highly accurate navigation signals for civil aviation over India and adjoining regions.
• GAGAN improves the accuracy, integrity, continuity, and availability of GPS signals, enabling safer en-route navigation and precision approaches.

Additional Fact

• IndiGo introduced LPV operations on its ATR turboprop fleet in 2022 and has since expanded SBAS-enabled navigation capabilities across its aircraft fleet.

Source: ToI

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