SINGAPORE, July 13 (Xinhua)-- The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) signed here Thursday a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore a space-based Very High Frequency (VHF) communications for air traffic management.
Singapore Technologies Electronics Limited (ST Electronics) and GomSpace joined in the ink of the MOU for the application and deployment of the technology in and around the Singapore Flight Information Region (FIR), on the third day of the 6th World Civil Aviation Chief Executives Forum (WCACEF) held at the Singapore Aviation Academy.
Researchers hope to realize space-based VHF communication by mounting relevant equipment onto a constellation of low-earth-orbit satellites, so as to enable clear, cost-effective and real-time communications between air traffic controllers and pilots anywhere.
Director-General of CAAS Kevin Shum said his department is committed to continually investing in cutting edge and innovative solutions to ensure the safe support for the growing air traffic in the region, adding that Singapore will be the first country in the world to move towards space-based VHF communications.
The WCACEF, which is organized by CAAS once every two years, has attracted this year more than 160 aviation leaders from over 80 countries and 15 international and regional organizations.
