GPS Aided GEO Augmented Navigation

June 3, 2023

In the ever-evolving world of aviation, technological advancements play a crucial role in ensuring safety, accuracy, and efficiency. One such groundbreaking innovation is the GPS Aided GEO Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) system. Developed jointly by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Airports Authority of India (AAI), GAGAN has transformed the way aircraft navigate the skies. Using GAGAN satellite technology, India successfully carried out the first-ever performance-based navigation demonstration for helicopters in Asia, with a flight from Juhu in Mumbai to Pune.

Introduction to GAGAN

GAGAN, an acronym for GPS Aided GEO Augmented Navigation, is an Indian Satellite-Based Augmentation System (SBAS). It was certified by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in 2015, marking a significant milestone for the Indian aviation sector. Notably, only four space-based augmentation systems exist worldwide, with GAGAN being the first developed for India and neighboring countries in the equatorial region.

Unveiling the Advantages

GAGAN extends its benefits beyond aviation, offering advantages to various transportation modes and public services. It enhances the accuracy, availability, and integrity of the GPS system, enabling users to rely on GPS for all phases of flight, from en route to approach, within the GAGAN service volume. Moreover, GAGAN enhances precision in reporting the aircraft’s position, thereby making a valuable contribution to maintaining superior Air Traffic Management (ATM). This technology also has applications in maritime, railroads, highways, defense services, the telecom industry, security agencies, and personal position location applications.

Working of GAGAN

At the heart of GAGAN lies a network of ground stations strategically positioned across the country. These ground reference stations, known as Indian Reference Stations (INRES), collect GPS satellite data. The collected information is then utilized by the Indian Master Control Centre (INMCC) to generate correction messages that rectify any signal errors. Subsequently, these correction messages are uplinked through the Indian Land Uplink Station (INLUS) and broadcast to aircraft receivers via communication satellites operating on the same frequency as GPS.

Application in Aviation Operations

The GAGAN system supports two crucial types of operations: Approach with Vertical Guidance (APV 1) and en-route (RNP 0.1). APV 1 enables precise approaches, providing vertical guidance to pilots during landing procedures. The en-route operation, known as Required Navigation Performance (RNP) 0.1, ensures accurate navigation during the aircraft’s flight between airports.

Paving the Way for Future Innovation

With its exceptional capabilities, GAGAN has proven to be a game-changer in the field of air navigation services. It has provided enhanced accuracy, integrity, and availability for positioning, navigation, and timing information, revolutionizing the Indian aviation sector. As GAGAN continues to evolve and demonstrate its effectiveness, it sets the stage for future innovations and advancements in aviation technology.

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