Satellite-based navigation system GAGAN launched

The GPS-aided Geo Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) system was launched on Monday by Civil Aviation Minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju. The system would make airline operations more efficient and reduce costs, reported PTI.

GAGAN is a satellite-based navigation system which provides autonomous, high precision geo-spatial location information of the user in terms of latitude, longitude and height along with velocity and time.

The system was jointly developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Airports Authority of India (AAI) at the cost of Rs 774 crore.

GAGAN will offer seamless navigation to the aviation industry.

The benefits of the system include improved efficiency, direct routes, increased fuel savings, approach with vertical guidance at runways, significant cost savings due to withdrawal of ground aids and reduced workload of flight crew and Air Traffic Controllers.

GAGAN will offer augmentation service for GPS over the country, Bay of Bengal, South East Asia and Middle East expanding up to Africa.

(Image: Indiatimes)