The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) announced today, December 17, 2024, that it will adopt a space-based aircraft tracking system to bolster air traffic management capabilities within the Manila Flight Information Region (FIR). The agency has partnered with Aireon, a provider of space-based Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) technology, to implement the advanced surveillance system.
The Manila FIR, encompassing approximately 3 million square kilometers, presents blind spots for traditional ground-based radar systems, particularly over oceanic and remote areas. Aireon’s satellite-based ADS-B technology will provide CAAP with real-time, global aircraft surveillance, which will improve agency’s ability to monitor and manage air traffic throughout the region.
CAAP Director General Captain Manuel Antonio Tamayo characterized the initiative as a significant step toward modernizing the country’s air traffic management infrastructure. The integration of Aireon’s system, he said, will enable the Philippines to maintain high safety standards while accommodating the growing demand for air travel in the region.
“Aireon’s space-based ADS-B data holds immense promise for improving efficiency, boosting safety, and supporting environmental sustainability,” said Peter Cabooter, Executive Vice President, Customer Affairs at Aireon.
The adoption of space-based ADS-B technology aligns the Philippines with other regional aviation authorities, such as Hong Kong and India, that have implemented similar systems to enhance air traffic safety and operational efficiency.
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