Aireon, a global pioneer in aviation data products and services, has reached a milestone in its effort to introduce space-based VHF communication services to the aviation sector. This achievement follows a critical spectrum license filing with regulators, submitted through Canada’s Innovation, Science and Economic Development (ISED) to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). The filing outlines plans for an enhanced satellite constellation featuring VHF and Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) payloads, designed to provide robust communication and surveillance capabilities for aircraft worldwide, especially in oceanic and remote regions where terrestrial infrastructure is limited.
Aireon, recognized for operating the world’s first and only safety-certified global space-based ADS-B system, began exploring space-based VHF communications in 2023. To support this initiative, the company established the Aireon Space-Based VHF Coalition, bringing together industry leaders such as Iridium, NAV CANADA, NATS, and AirNav Ireland. The coalition focuses on defining the concept of operations, technical requirements, and business viability for space-based VHF services. Since its inception, Aireon has expanded collaborations with customers and stakeholders who recognize the critical role of safety-certified space-based solutions in enhancing aviation operations.
In addition to engaging with its coalition members, Aireon works closely with international aviation organizations and regulatory authorities, including ICAO, RTCA, EUROCAE, EASA, ISED, and ITU. These collaborations aim to develop the technical standards, operational frameworks, and verification processes required for space-based VHF communication.
“Aireon is uniquely positioned to bring space-based VHF to the aviation marketplace. We’ve proven our expertise by deploying and operationalizing space-based ADS-B services,” said Dr. Michael Garcia, Aireon’s Chief Innovation Scientist. “This spectrum filing is a major step forward in advancing aviation and delivering innovative solutions to our customers.” Garcia, a leading figure in the field, co-chairs several EUROCAE standards groups and serves as the lead editor for the ICAO Space-Based VHF Manual.
Looking ahead, Aireon will continue working with its coalition and industry partners to finalize the design, development, deployment, and operational strategies for space-based VHF services.
“NAV CANADA is thrilled to collaborate with Aireon on operationalizing space-based VHF technology,” said Warren Gosselin, Assistant Vice-President of CNS Solutions at NAV CANADA. “This innovative solution holds immense potential for enhancing operations in Canada’s oceanic and Arctic airspaces.”
Don Thoma, CEO of Aireon, highlighted the company’s leadership in space-based aviation technologies. “The Aireon Space-Based VHF Coalition has made remarkable progress in bringing this groundbreaking capability to market. By integrating space-based VHF with our proven global ADS-B surveillance services, we aim to deliver even greater value to our customers and the aviation industry at large.”
Aireon’s pursuit of space-based VHF services underscores its commitment to revolutionizing aviation safety and efficiency through cutting-edge satellite technology.