Segmented Steep Precision Approaches Based on GLS

Abstract

As the international air traffic becomes more and more complex there is a growing demand for new operational procedures. Especially quiet and fuel efficient approaches are desired. As a Ground Based Augmentation System (GBAS) provides more flexibility than current precision landing systems it is identified as a potential main technology for providing different approach procedures tailored for the demands at a special location. Especially steep precision approaches have a high noise reducing potential as the aircraft can stay at a higher altitude for a longer time. Due to its flexibility a GBAS Landing System (GLS) provides the opportunity to design different approach procedures tailored for the demands at a special location. During this work approach procedures based on GLS with slightly higher glide path angles than usual (4° - 5° instead of 3° - 3,5°) were investigated. The approach paths with steeper glide path angles were integrated into an experimental ground station and flight trials were conducted to evaluate the new approaches. Different pilots conducted different approaches with different glide path angels. After each approach the pilots were questioned about the subjective work load and the flight technical demands. Furthermore noise measurements were carried out during a flight trial with a B-737 of Air Berlin. The results of the flight trials are going to be presented and a comparison of the position deviations during different approaches with different glide path angles will be conducted.