Interoperability Issues in the Use of Satellite-Based Navigation Systems for Civil Aviation Purposes

Abstract

This study analyses that compatibility and interoperability issues related to the use of the USAF NAVSTAR Global Positioning System for civil aviation purposes. It also compares the USSR GLONASS navigation system to GPS to provide similiar services worldwide. The GPS is primarily a military assets with significant civil applications especially as it applies to air traffic control. It is recognized by the civil sector as a system which will revolutionize the present day navigation methodology and indeed make way for new ATC concepts and procedures. Several compatibility and interoperability issues are described in this study wherein the system integrity issue remains outstanding and must be resolved prior to using GPS for civil aviation. It appears the USAF and FAA intend to utilize GPS to meet their air navigation system requirements of the future. However, the USAF GPS program implimentation is years ahead of the FAA. It is recommended the programs be compared and evaluated to ensure maximum compatibility and to expedite the use of GPS for civil applications. FAA is presently working with the USSR and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in an effort to develop international standards for satellite-based navigation systems such as GPS and GLONASS. This effort appears to be progressing well in spite of limited data regarding the GLONASS system.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 01, 1989
Accession Number
ADA217279

Entities

People

  • Marcos Costilla

Organizations

  • Air War College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Air Navigation
  • Air Traffic Control Systems
  • Global Positioning Systems
  • Guidance
  • Inertial Navigation
  • Inertial Navigation Systems
  • Navigation
  • Navigation Satellites
  • Navigational Aids
  • Radio Navigation
  • Satellite Navigation Systems
  • Teamwork
  • Three Dimensional
  • War Colleges
  • Warning Systems
  • World Geodetic System

Readers

  • Aerospace logistics and air mobility.
  • Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) Technology.
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Space