Cost benefit analysis of the combined WAAS/LAAS system

Abstract

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) plans to replace current terrestrial navigation systems with a satellite-based system called the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). The two main systems planned for navigation are the Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) and the Local Area Augmentation System (LAAS). Both systems rely on the Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite constellation, augmented by a combination of additional geostationary satellites and ground reference signals. These augmentations are required to meet aviation requirements for service availability, integrity, continuity, and accuracy. Together, WAAS and LAAS will provide seamless navigation coverage throughout the National Airspace System (NAS). WAAS will provide en route and terminal guidance throughout the NAS and Category I landing guidance at most airports. LAAS will be used exclusively to provide Category II and III landing guidance at all airports, and Category I where it is not provided by WAAS. This paper presents the approach and methodology used in developing a combined cost benefit analysis of both systems. Previous analyses addressed separate and independent implementations of each system. The combined analysis is designed to capture all costs and benefits attributable to both systems, ensuring a comprehensive and fair assessment. The analysis attributes costs and benefits to air carriers and other aircraft operators, passengers of air carriers, airport operators, and the FAA. Cost avoidance is included through the decommissioning of the current terrestrial navigation infrastructure.