THE GERMAN air-navigation-services agency, the DFS, has begun a satellite-navigation test programme which could lead to satellite-based non-precision approaches being allowed this year.
The programme, begun in December, 1994, is being carried out in co-operation with the Federal Aviation Office (LBA) and Nuremberg-based regional carrier Eurowings.
A global-positioning-system (GPS) receiver has been fitted to a Eurowings ATR 72 turboprop which is undergoing test flights and has been certificated by the LBA for special operational conditions.
According to the DFS, the main goal is to prove the safe use of satellite navigation in non-precision approaches and to examine possible disturbances in the reception of the satellite signal. Results will be evaluated using pilot reports and radar data.
The agency says that, if the programme yields positive results, GPS approaches will be allowed at certain airports this year, with en route use of the system also to be approved "as soon as possible".
Source: Flight International
