LORAN C Offshore Flight Following (LOFF) in the Gulf of Mexico
Abstract
This report describes results of tests conducted by the FAA Technical Center to evaluate the LOFF system. Simulation and flight test were used to measure system performance under operational conditions. The LOFF system is the first implementation of Automatic Dependent Surveillance (ADS) by the FAA to track aircraft. It uses aircraft derived position as determined by Loran, transmitted by VHF data link for use by air traffic controllers. A converter unit was installed in the Houston Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC) to process incoming LOFF messages and convert them into a radar data format. Results of this conversion are input to the Enhanced Direct Access Radar Channel (EDARC) which presents the aircraft as a conventional radar target. The system provides coverage in areas not currently served by radar, offshore in the Gulf of Mexico. Simulated inputs were used during testing to determine accuracy of the LOFF converter, to measure timing delays, and to relate aircraft position in latitude/longitude to a displayed position as seen by the controller. Flight tests were conducted to determine VHF coverage using the system, to measure Loran accuracy in the area, to compare dynamic performance with nondynamic performance of the EDARC system, and to provide an overall evaluation of the operational system. Overall results of the LOFF test program were favorable. The system performs in a predictable and reasonable manner and is comparable to that of radar, although there is a slight difference in accuracy between the two.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA197179
Entities
People
- Frank Lorge
Organizations
- Federal Aviation Administration