Aero-Terms!

Aero-Terms are designed to be a daily reminder of the terms, names, acronyms and explanations of the unique language that populates the aviation world. Aerospace, sport aviation, fixed wing, helo, you name it... it's all fair game.

Aero-Terms should serve as a quick but intriguing reminder of the terms you may use every day, or an introduction to an aspects of the Aero-World you may not yet be familiar with. ANN also encourages readers to go beyond the FMI link, and further research any intriguing terms.

Suggestions for future Aero-Terms are ALWAYS welcome, as are additions or discussion of the explanations given for each Aero-Term.

WAAS

The Wide Area Augmentation System uses a system of ground stations to provide necessary augmentations to the GPS (Global Positioning System) SPS (Standard Positioning Service) navigation signal. A network of precisely surveyed ground reference stations is strategically positioned across the country including Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico to collect GPS satellite data. Using this information, a message is developed to correct any signal errors. These correction messages are then broadcast through communication satellites to receivers onboard aircraft using the same frequency as GPS. The WAAS is designed to provide the additional accuracy, availability, and integrity necessary to enable users to rely on GPS for all phases of flight, from en route through GLS approach for all qualified airports within the WAAS coverage area. Hey FAA... waas up?

FMI: http://gps.faa.gov/