New Delhi— In response to the rising threat of fake GPS signals disrupting aircraft navigation, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued a circular to airlines and the Airports Authority of India (AAI). The circular outlines a coordinated approach to monitor, analyze, and mitigate the impact of fake GPS signals on flight paths.
Several weeks ago, a significant number of corporate and commercial aircraft faced diversions in the Middle Eastern airspace due to fake GPS signals. The DGCA formed an internal committee on October 4 to address the issue, collaborating with experts globally. The circular defines the roles and responsibilities of airlines and the AAI in combating this emerging threat.
The document recommends comprehensive mitigation measures and action plans for aircraft operators, pilots, the AAI, and air traffic controllers. It emphasizes the importance of developing contingency procedures, coordinating with equipment manufacturers, and conducting safety risk assessments. The circular aims to establish a “threat monitoring and analysis network” in collaboration with the AAI to proactively respond to GNSS (global navigation satellite system) interference.
The aviation industry, grappling with uncertainties related to new threats and GNSS jamming, sees this circular as a practical guide providing much-needed clarity on dealing with the threat effectively.
