The ability of EGNOS to enable cost-effective Performance-based Navigation (PBN) was highlighted at the World Air Traffic Management (ATM) Congress in Madrid in mid-February. Satellite-based augmentation systems (SBAS), such as EGNOS, can provide the required high precision without the need for costly investment.

Shipping and farming might not appear to have much in common, but both sectors are exploiting satellite technologies, and are looking forward to the new opportunities offered by the European GNSS programmes EGNOS and Galileo. At the European Space Solutions (ESS) conference in London on December 4, experts in the fields outlined how satellites are making their work easier.

Augmented Satellite Navigation systems, such as EGNOS, are one of the enabling technologies for Performance Based Navigation (PBN). Implementation of PBN is a key short- to medium-term task for aviation authorities across Europe. A workshop organised by Pildo Labs in Barcelona, Spain will share best practices in developing and operating these essential procedures.

Spain is clearly keen on space technology with thousands of visitors passing through the doors of the European Space Expo in Madrid this week. The free exhibition featuring Europe’s Galileo, EGNOS and Copernicus programmes was a big hit with Spanish citizens of all ages!

Spain is the latest European country to sign up to implement EGNOS-based approach procedures for its airports with the signing of an agreement at the World ATM Congress in Madrid. The first Spanish airport to implement EGNOS-based procedures should be up and running by this summer.

As EGNOS coverage extends south and east, new markets for GNSS technologies developed in Europe are opening up. The European Commission has funded a comprehensive survey that not only identifies the main market potential for EGNOS applications in these territories, but also the EU technologies that could satisfy demand.