The GPS-Aided Geo Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) system jointly developed by Airports Authority of India, the Indian Space Research Organization and Raytheon has achieved certification level Required Navigation Performance (RNP) 0.1.
Civil aircraft in Indian airspace will now have access to more precision navigation data than ever before. The GAGAN system is a Satellite Based Augmentation System (SBAS) equipped with the most advanced air navigation technology available.
The GAGAN system advances safety and improves efficiency of airlines operating throughout India. Aircraft equipped with SBAS receivers may utilize GAGAN signals in Indian airspace for en route navigation and non-precision approaches without vertical guidance. This capability will allow aircraft to follow more efficient flight paths through congested airspace, noise sensitive areas or difficult terrain.
“The enhanced navigation capability available through GAGAN improves air travel for all parties – airlines, passengers and air traffic authorities,” said Brian Hickey, Director, Raytheon Navigation and Landing Systems.
“In addition to enhancing air traffic safety, the system will result in increased efficiencies and lower costs for Indian aviation.”
The GAGAN system includes 15 reference stations strategically placed in India to optimize signal availability, uplink stations, master control stations, communication network and associated software, all integrated to two Geostationary Earth Orbit satellites transmitting GPS corrections in C and L bands.
GAGAN is the fourth SBAS system certified for operational use. The system provides coverage for the entire Indian Flight Information Region via broadcast signals from the Indian built GSAT 8 and GSAT 10 satellites. Raytheon has co-developed three of the four world’s SBAS systems in concert with national aviation and transportation authorities.