GAGAN, (GPS-aided geo-augmented navigation) the Indian SBAS (Satellite based augmentation system) is a project jointly undertaken by the Airports Authority of India and ISRO to achieve smooth transition to satellite based navigation and seamless air traffic management across continents. GAGAN is designed to provide improved accuracy, availability, and integrity necessary to enable users to rely on GPS for all phases of flight, from en route through approach for all qualified airports within the GAGAN service volume.
India is only 4th in the world , after USA, Japan and Europe, to develop regional SBAS that will redefine the navigation in India and in adjacent regions. The footprint of GAGAN will cover huge area beyond India Territory, from Africa to Australia and can support seamless navigation across the Globe. The system is also interoperable with other such systems of WAAS of USA, EGNOSS of Europe and MSAS of Japan. GAGAN will usher in greater air space harmonization.
India is also implementing GBAS in collaboration with Honeywell of USA as a pilot project at Chennai Airport. The system is expected to be operational in 2013 and pave the way towards providing enhanced access to airports in the future.
The project involves establishment of 15 Indian Reference Stations, three Indian Navigation Land Uplink Stations, three Indian Mission Control Centers and installation of all associated software and communication links. GAGAN is planned to get into operation by the year 2014. It will be able to help pilots to navigate in the Indian airspace by an accuracy of 3 m. This will be helpful for landing aircraft in tough weather and terrain like Mangalore airport and Leh.
