On 14^th September, Helios hosted a workshop attended by a number of UK aerodromes and operators to tell them about new funding to help them implement APV approach procedures – but interested aerodromes and aircraft/helicopter operators will need to act quickly – the deadline for applications is 21^st October 2011.

APV approach procedures are instrument approach procedures that do not require extensive investment of ground based navigation aids to be installed on the ground. The positioning information for APV approach procedures is derived from the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS), a Satellite Based Augmentation System (SBAS) that supplements GNSS systems by reporting on the reliability and accuracy of the signals. The signal corrections provided by EGNOS enhance the GNSS standard accuracy and provide an indication of the integrity of the position information provided. By using these corrections, aircraft fitted with EGNOS receivers are able to use APV SBAS (LPV) approach procedures to achieve near ILS CAT I equivalent decision heights. The decision height provided by APV procedures does vary – dependent on runway lighting, terrain, obstacles and ATC provision – but it is still lower than equivalent Non-Precision Approach (NPA) procedures.

So why would an aerodrome want to install EGNOS approach procedures?

The two main reasons are safety and business continuity.

ICAO has recognised that the guidance provided through an APV approach includes vertical guidance which could contribute to a reduction in Controlled Flight into Terrain (CFIT) incidents. The increased safety afforded through an APV approach procedure has resulted in ICAO States agreeing with Assembly Resolution 37-11 that:

“all instrument runway ends should have an approach procedure with vertical guidance (APV), either as the primary approach or as a back-up for precision approach by 2016”

Since no ground-based infrastructure is needed to provide guidance to aircraft flying an APV approach procedure, this means that some smaller airfields could also benefit. Remote and marginal airfields crucial to support their local communities or activities could therefore be prime candidates for the installation of APV approach procedures. These airfields are seeing this as an opportunity not only to provide business continuity for any existing instrument approach procedures, but also to attract new traffic.

Where has the funding come from?

The EGNOS system has been funded by the European Commission which has an interest in seeing the system used. Through the ACCEPTA project the Commission is making up to 50% funding available to aerodromes for the implementation of APV approach procedures.  A deadline of 21^st October has been set for applications for this funding with the application forms available on the project website. Joint applications from aerodromes and aircraft/helicopter operators are particularly encouraged.

Philip Church from Helios will be happy to answer any questions about APV approach procedures and the steps necessary to implement and certify the procedures.

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