Gulfstream Says System Improves Safety, Enhances Operational Accuracy, Increases Airport Access

The FAA has certified Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) functionality on Gulfstream G150 aircraft, the aircraft manufacturer announced Thursday. The optional WAAS-capable receiver can be installed on new G150s during final-phase manufacturing or as a retrofit on all in-service G150 aircraft.

G150 File Photo

WAAS is a navigation system composed of satellites and ground stations that improves the accuracy of the Global Positioning System (GPS). Receivers throughout the United States evaluate the quality of the GPS signal, relaying it to master stations. Those stations transmit improvements to geostationary satellites, which then broadcast correction signals to WAAS-capable satellite receivers.

WAAS provides a number of benefits, including enhanced safety, increased flight-planning options and improved airport access. The system also provides localizer performance with vertical guidance (LPV), allowing pilots to fly into approved airports using a pseudo-glideslope, just as they would with an instrument landing system (ILS) approach.

"This is an excellent opportunity for our G150 operators to enjoy the benefits precision approaches deliver," said Pres Henne, senior vice president, Programs, Engineering and Test, Gulfstream. "With more than 1,900 LPV approaches certified and in use today, operators can enjoy two of business aviation's biggest benefits - convenience and flexibility. Not only that, but the accuracy and precision WAAS and LPV provide means pilots can reduce the number of missed approaches and diversions. This, in turn, improves safety and reduces costs."

WAAS functionality is provided to Gulfstream large-cabin aircraft as part of the optional Enhanced Navigation Package, an upgrade to the PlaneView flight deck.

FMI: www.gulfstream.com