Eastern Finland Airports Return to Radio Navigation Amid GPS Interference
Disruptions and Safety Concerns Prompt Resumption of Legacy System
Airports in Eastern Finland have temporarily reverted to using a legacy radio navigation system due to ongoing disruptions in Global Positioning System (GPS) signals. The move comes as GPS interference has raised safety concerns for aircraft operating in the region.
Historical Legacy System Offers Backup Solution
The radio navigation system, known as VOR (VHF Omnidirectional Range), has been in use for decades and provides aircraft with guidance based on radio signals emitted from ground-based beacons. While GPS has largely replaced VOR in recent years, the legacy system remains a reliable backup in case of GPS outages or interference.
GPS Interference Raises Safety Concerns
GPS interference has become a growing concern in recent years, particularly in areas near military activities or where electronic warfare systems are deployed. In Eastern Finland, the interference has been attributed to Russian military exercises, which have disrupted GPS signals and posed a potential risk to air navigation.
Transition to VOR Ensures Continued Safety
To mitigate these risks, airports in Eastern Finland, including Joensuu Airport and Kuopio Airport, have suspended GPS-based approaches and reverted to using VOR for navigation. This transition ensures that aircraft can continue to land and depart safely despite the GPS disruptions.
VOR Provides Reliable Alternative
While VOR is less precise than GPS, it offers a reliable alternative in situations where GPS is unavailable or unreliable. VOR beacons emit signals in all directions, allowing aircraft to determine their position and track their course using onboard navigation equipment.
Temporary Solution Until GPS Interference Subsides
The use of VOR is expected to remain in place until the GPS interference subsides. Authorities are working to identify the source of the disruptions and implement measures to mitigate the risk of future interference. Once GPS signals return to normal, airports will resume using GPS-based approaches as the primary navigation system.
Conclusion
The return to radio navigation in Eastern Finland highlights the importance of having reliable backup systems in place for critical infrastructure. The temporary use of VOR ensures that air travel in the region can continue safely and efficiently despite the ongoing GPS interference.
