The US Federal Radionavigation Plan

Abstract

The author presents an overview of the 1990 Federal Radionavigation Plan policy and a discussion of the status of GPS (Global Positioning System), Loran-C, Omega, VOR/DME (VHF omnidirectional range/distance measuring equipment), VORTAC (combined VOR and TACAN stations), TACAN, (tactical air navigation), MLS (microwave landing system), ILS (instrument landing systems), Transit, and radiobeacons. The 1990 FRP contains significant changes regarding several of the radionavigation systems. It is concluded that it is difficult at best to ascertain the post-GPS final systems mix of federally provided radionavigation systems. The phase-out dates of other systems in favor of GPS still remain soft. Many uncertainties remain until the capabilities of GPS are verified for all classes of users. The federal radionavigation planning process accommodates such uncertainties, keeping pace with the constantly changing radionavigation user profile and rapid advancements in system technology.<>