City airport first with Nasa safety system
Glasgow hub uses hi-tech satellite data to create 3D maps
gLAsgOW Airpor t is harnessing space age technology to keep airline passengers safe.
Air traffic controllers are using three dimensional terrain mapping – with the help of sophisticated satellite data from Us space agency nasa.
The new safety system is the most accurate in the world and is being used for the first time ever by national Air Traffic services personnel at scotland’s biggest airport, following a six-month trial.
glasgow is pioneering the system after a j oint specialist team of engineers from nATs and the Civil Aviation Authority converted nasa satellite data into 3D contour maps of the airport’s surrounding area.
Around 24,000 contour points were produced which represent different locations and heights above sea level, such as some of the city’s tallest buildings.
nATs senior systems engineer Andrew Wood said: “This is the first system in the UK to use 3D terrain mapping in a live operational environment.
“The new system is the most accurate in the world. It brings improved safety for aircraft and passengers and will give controllers even greater confidence.
“The system has been verified to trigger when aircraft
This is an exciting and innovative development in are traffic management
are either entering a dangerous rate of descent or are in close proximity to the ground.
“We had to ensure that the alerts being raised were valid, as well as proving that no aircraft in danger were failing to trigger alerts.”
NATs engineering director Iain Harris added: “This project has been developed in-house by NATs from the ground up and is a prime example of our ability to innovate for enhanced safety performance.”
The new 3D system is to be rolled out to other airports across the UK but officials at glasgow Airport are delighted the scottish hub was chosen to spearhead the space-age technology.
A spokesman said: “This is an exciting and innovative development in air traffic management and we are delighted to have it in place at glasgow Airport. Any technological advancement that can enhance the safety and security of airlines and their passengers is a welcome one.”