Potential Operational Advantages of Low Cost VLF/Omega Navigation Equipment

Abstract

Evaluation flights of the Global Navigation Co. low cost, Digital Navigation System using existing Very Low Frequency (12kHz-30kHz) Communication and Omega stations were initiated by the Western Region of FAA early in 1970. The developers of the system, Dr. Karl Frudenfeld and Mr. F. P. Wipff, felt that the system would have an impact on navigation in remote areas of the world as well as in the National Aviation System, and were desirous of appraising FAA of its development status at an early date. More than forty FAA managers and specialists have flown or observed the system in indoctrination flights varying from 10 to 400 miles in length and including many approaches under VFR conditions. Direct contact with personnel involved in company funded development and survey flights of this equipment over most of the North American continent has provided additional data and confidence in the system's capability. Continually refined systems have been installed in over twenty types of airplanes and helicopters to investigate a wide range of variables of configuration, atmospheric variables, geographical considerations and other known or suspected factors in a VLF navigation system. The results indicate an excellent capability for accurate point-to-point navigation for flights up to 800 nautical miles in length (or greater with waypoint updating) as well as a capability and potential for use in conducting approaches and specialized navigation and survey functions, as well as compatability with other navigation systems and techniques. A formal FAA funded flight evaluation program is now being conducted by the Western Region under the sponsorship of the System Research and Development Service. The results of this program should be available early in 1972.