DFMC GBAS Processing of Flight Trial Data – A First Comparison of Options

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to contribute to the feasibility and trade-off analysis of the different proposed architectures for future dual-frequency multi-constellation ground-based augmentation system (DFMC GBAS). The Authors’ aim is to provide an overall picture of the minimum operational performance capabilities of current and experimental future GBAS approach service types (GASTs), willing to assist the relevant standardization groups in consolidating the DFMC GBAS concept for the development of a future standard. In this paper we present the evaluation of the performances for legacy and experimental DFMC GBAS modes. The accuracy and integrity evaluations are based on ground and airborne data that was collected during flight trials of DREAMS project in the framework of single European sky ATM research (SESAR). We compare the errors and the nominal protection levels of the SESAR proposed processing modes taking as baseline the ones provided by legacy GBAS approach service types such as GAST-C and GAST-D. This work provides elements to verify and validate that in proposed DFMC GBAS architectures the ground and airborne sub-system segments are mutually and correctly interfaced with both GNSS constellations (GPS and GALILEO) and the proposed VHF data broadcast (VDB) link format, addressing the end user needs with respect the proposed requirements.