This is a key step for the implementation of EGNOS-based approach procedures (LPV procedures) to be used at the different Belgium airports.

The agreement was sealed on 11th June, 2015 by Thierry Racaud, ESSP CEO, and Johan Decuyper,  CEO from Belgocontrol.

 The signature of an EGNOS Working Agreement establishes the operational and legal framework to use the EGNOS Safety-of-Life Service as navigation aid between the EGNOS Service Provider – ESSP- and the correspondent national Air Navigation Service Provider. The EWA is the prior step to the publication of APV-1 SBAS approaches (LPV procedures) that offer almost similar performance to ILS CAT 1.

Thierry Racaud, ESSP CEO said “From now on airports in Belgium can benefit from the publication of EGNOS-based procedures. This will improve airplanes approach performance and accessibility, especially in case of bad weather conditions. Let’s welcome a new EGNOS player at European skies”.

The implementation of APV-1 approaches at Brussels Airport and at regional airports where Belgocontrol is providing air traffic services, will significantly enhance their accessibility by allowing safe and smooth operations under adverse weather conditions.

Johan Decuyper, Belgocontrol CEO said “The implementation and publication of instrument approach procedures with vertical guidance at runway ends without ILS fits into the Belgocontrol policy aiming to guarantee and even improve an efficient and quality service to our customers”.

Implementation plans for up to 16 procedures at Belgian aerodromes have been drafted; the design of the initial ones have been initiated for Antwerp International Airport, Charleroi Airport and Brussels Airport.

The first LPV-procedure using the EGNOS system is expected to be operationally available at Antwerp International Airport by December 2015.