How will the FAA plan to use GPS in the future?

GPS is an essential element of the future navigation architecture. Existing ground-based navigation aids have limited coverage due to terrain, and the majority of instrument approaches do not have vertical guidance due to the cost of siting and operating an Instrument Landing System (ILS). A satellite-based navigation system is needed that can provide global coverage, regardless of user altitude, and support precision approach operations at every runway without the need for costly ground infrastructure. Note that providing vertical guidance on an approach reduces the risk of controlled flight into terrain (CFIT) significantly. This satellite-based navigation system must also be global, so that the level of safety can be raised not only within the U.S. but also in the rest of the world.

Without augmentation, GPS is already used as a supplemental means of navigation, in addition to conventional ground-based navigation. Augmented by the Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS), satellite navigation will provide en route, terminal area, and approach services, down to GLS precision approach. Augmented by the Local Area Augmentation System (LAAS), satellite navigation will serve all categories of precision approach.

A second civil frequency is the next logical step in modernization of the navigation architecture and providing improved satellite navigation services. Within the U.S., it will improve the reliability of satellite navigation, particularly against the potential threats of interference and ionosphere. Outside of the U.S., it will make precision approaches possible with even less infrastructure than is achievable with WAAS alone. In addition, additional operational benefits will be defined as the service is defined and applications for that service are developed.