GPS Charts 3

28.10.2004

Submission:

GPS policy is very much in the hands of the regulatory body for each individual State. However, there are three main areas that need to be addressed before GPS is used as a primary or sole means aid for navigation under IFR. I have assumed it will only ever be a supplementary aid for VFR navigation.

Technical - basically concerned with the certification of the equipment in the aircraft. TSOC129a equipment or equivalent. Trials may be required to ensure no interference from other aircraft equipment (particularly DME and certain VHF freqs.). Aircraft installation and equipment redundancy. Database integrity and control.

Operational - RAIM prediction requirement, if necessary. Alternates and use of other aids if GPS not available. GPS R/T phraseology (ATS need including). Definitions of primary and sole means use.

Training & Licensing - GPS instrument rating and will rating be GPS type/model specific ? Approved training courses for pilots and ATS.

The use of AICs and AIP supplements is probably the best way to disseminate information and advise of approvals. Hope this is helpful as an indication of what may be required in RSA.

Jerry Willmott

Westen Michigan University