For more than fifty years, the Instrument Landing System (ILS) remained the go-to radio navigation aid for precise approaches and landings. Recently, a new system called GLS, which stands for Ground-Based Augmentation System, has transitioned from research and development into operational status, supported by appropriate aircraft fittings. GLS enhances signals from standard Global Navigation Satellite Systems, including GPS and GLONASS, providing the necessary precision and reliability for precision approach and landing operations. Furthermore, Ground-Based Augmentation Systems (GBAS) deliver significant precision for landing tasks when located at an airport, serving as a viable alternative to ILS while supporting various approach and landing operations. Presently, GBAS installations offer Category I (CAT-I) precision approach service, with ongoing initiatives aimed at delivering GBAS Approach Service Type D (GAST-D) for operations once categorized under ILS CAT-III minima. Recently, ICAO published new international standards for GAST-D operations.
To showcase the advantages of GLS integration, insights from one of the pioneering airports that adopted GLS are referenced.
GLS Implementation in Australia by Ken Allcott, Airfield Planning Manager, Sydney Airport Company Ltd.
The Ground-Based Augmentation System (GBAS) is a setup that enables the provision of Category I Precision Approaches. The GBAS can facilitate up to 26 approaches to any runway, and in cases where runway thresholds require extended displacements, it can be easily reconfigured to accommodate approaches to a displaced landing threshold.
Significantly, the GBAS unit can be situated away from the active runway environment, removing the need for typical areas that protect the ILS signals. The flight checking processes for the GBAS system tend to be less disruptive compared to conventional ILS. Where six ILS units require separate flight checks, only a single flight check is needed for the GBAS validation.
The cockpit display associated with GLS mirrors that of an ILS display, making pilot training for GLS integration relatively straightforward.
In a collaborative effort, Sydney Airport, along with Qantas and Airservices Australia, successfully installed a GBAS unit to enable GLS approaches, culminating in the first B737 approach within a specific time frame.
The GBAS unit enables ILS-like approaches to all runway ends at Sydney Airport.
Controlled conditions maintained by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) allowed for GLS approaches. By a given date, Qantas had conducted over 2,000 GLS approaches.
Officially commissioned for operational service, the GBAS at Sydney Airport witnessed 36% of A380 aircraft and 52% of B738 aircraft engaging in GLS operations shortly after commissioning, with an upward trend in the number of aircraft executing GLS approaches over time.
With a relatively modern fleet mix, Sydney Airport enjoys that nearly all B737 aircraft are GLS-equipped. Additionally, many A380 aircraft are similarly outfitted, while newer generation aircraft such as the B787, B747-800, and A350 come standard with GLS installed.
GLS presents multiple benefits over traditional ILS approaches. ILS signals often face interruptions from landing or departing aircraft, while the GLS approach remains unaffected by such interference, enhancing guidance stability compared to ILS.
Cost-wise, a GBAS unit parallels that of an ILS installation but offers up to 26 ILS-like approaches across several runways. At present, the flight inspection processes for GLS resemble those of ILS, as it is convenient for the flight inspection aircraft to conduct these checks while operating at the aerodrome. However, it is acknowledged that the frequency of flight inspections for GLS could be significantly extended beyond the demands of ILS inspections, minimizing the impact on capacity caused by systems flight checks.
Airservices Australia has recently installed a GBAS unit at Melbourne Airport, providing precision approach guidance for suitably equipped aircraft to two runway ends, where precision approach procedures previously did not exist. Future installations of GBAS units are also planned for Brisbane Airport.
Sydney Airport, along with other Australian airports, is actively exploring options to achieve Category II approaches to maximize the benefits of this technology.
In the intricate world of offshore asset management, platforms are often located amid some of the harshest environmental conditions. Decommissioning such structures requires meticulous efforts, demanding the highest standards of care, efficiency, and, most importantly, safety. Operators must ensure they are equipped with the latest tools and systems to seamlessly tackle this challenge, with advanced navigational aids playing a crucial role.
Navigational aids have historically been instrumental in ensuring the safety of land, sea, and crew. Their importance in the decommissioning process of offshore rigs cannot be overstated, as they contribute significantly to maintaining safety, enhancing efficiency, and adhering to international standards.
While the pivotal role of accurate maps and GPS systems is well-recognized, it is essential to highlight the integral component of navigational aids: lighting. Appropriate illumination is critical to ensuring that a decommissioning project aligns with global benchmarks and maximizes operational safety.
Navigational Aids’ Contribution to Decommissioning Excellence and Safety Enhancement
In a rapidly evolving offshore decommissioning industry, the need for effective, targeted lighting and navigational aids has never been more significant. This is particularly evident in today's competitive global market, where differentiation is essential for success.
For more Marine Aids to Navigation Solutions information, please contact us. We are ready to provide professional responses.
Investing in high-quality navigational aids yields distinct advantages for decommissioning projects:
- Safety Assurance: Enhanced visibility during decommissioning is directly correlated with safety. Proper illumination not only protects your team but also safeguards the marine ecosystem.
- Upholding Global Standards: Establish your company’s reputation by not only meeting but surpassing global benchmarks. Utilize navigational aids that set the gold standard for platform decommissioning lighting.
- Operational Efficiency: By ensuring a well-lit and safe decommissioning environment, team members are empowered to attain unmatched levels of efficiency.
- Reliability: Our curated systems, sourced from trusted suppliers, guarantee safety and reliability, allowing you to operate with confidence.
- Future Sustainability: Utilizing cutting-edge technology, these systems are designed with future considerations, providing optimal visibility while promoting energy conservation and sustainability.
Wellhead Electrical Supplies: Collaborating with Renowned Brands for Quality Navigational Aids
At Wellhead Electrical Supplies, we take pride in offering products from esteemed industry leaders like Tideland Signal and Orga BV. Our partnerships with these distinguished brands are founded on a shared commitment to safety, innovation, and excellence, ensuring our decommissioning clientele receive only the finest solutions.
Orga BV
Orga BV is a cornerstone among our trusted partners, consistently leading in the development of top-notch navigational aids since its inception. Their products encompass a wide range, from helideck lighting to essential components like CAP437 and IALA Navigation Lighting, all crafted to enhance the safety of offshore decommissioning projects.
View the complete Orga BV range we distribute here.
Tideland Signal
Tideland Signal, now part of the Orga group, prides itself on over sixty years of expertise in crafting advanced navigational aids. These aids are crucial for the decommissioning sector, emphasizing safety as a core operational concern. As a long-standing partner of Wellhead Electrical Supplies, Tideland Signal's comprehensive array, which includes marine foghorns, lanterns, racons, visibility sensors, and flashes, has played a vital role in decommissioning projects across the globe.
View the complete Tideland Signal range we distribute here.
If you are considering an upgrade to your navigational aids, connect with our specialists at Wellhead Electrical Supplies. We are dedicated to crafting solutions tailored to your needs.
To learn more, please visit our website marine navigational aids manufacturer.
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