Space-based VHF team aims to boost flight safety
Is space-based VHF set to improve the safety and efficiency of flights over remote and oceanic regions? A coalition of aviation organisations led by space-based ADS-B provider Aireon has been…
Is space-based VHF set to improve the safety and efficiency of flights over remote and oceanic regions? A coalition of aviation organisations led by space-based ADS-B provider Aireon has been formed to develop the concept of operations for space-based VHF voice and data communications for aviation.
The Aireon Space-Based VHF Coalition includes Iridium, NAV CANADA, NATS, AirNav Ireland, ENAV, and Naviair, and discussions are underway with additional Aireon partners who are expected to join in the near future.
The addition of space-based ADS-B surveillance to remote and oceanic airspace operations five years ago has improved the safety and efficiency of more than 50% of the world’s airspace. The concept of space-based VHF holds similar promise for the aviation industry, particularly for areas with limited connectivity or without ground infrastructure like remote regions and oceanic routes.
Like space-based ADS-B, space-based VHF has the potential to improve airspace safety, efficiency, and sustainability by reducing aircraft separation and more efficient routing. In December, the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) approved the allocation of new radio frequencies for aeronautical use, which is paving the regulatory way for space-based VHF communications.
In support of the frequency allocation, Aireon will file for a license to operate a space-based VHF system in the newly allocated spectrum band. In addition, with the coalition partners, Aireon will support the work being done at ICAO, where the important work around technical and operational requirements and coordination will be addressed.
Aireon spent more than 12 years deploying and operating the only certified space-based surveillance system. Currently, Aireon data is used by about 50 percent of the world’s airspace to safely and efficiently navigate aircraft; Aireon counts more than 40 countries, represented by more than 20 ANSPs, as its customers.
“At Aireon, we understand the complexities and challenges of operating space-based safety of life services. We’ve been doing it for years. And as we embark on this new initiative, we will apply the same rigorous process to deploy and operate space-based VHF services as we did when we launched space-based ADS-B,” said Don Thoma, Aireon CEO. “We are confident that this coalition is best suited to address the high-standard of quality that space-based VHF technology requires and is best suited to deploy another game changing service to the aviation community.”
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