CSG could disrupt aviation GPS

WASHINGTON, D.C. - A Navy exercise off the SE Georgia coast is expected to disrupt Global Positioning System (GPS) service that potentially could affect commercial and private aircraft flying over Alabama, Florida, and elsewhere across the Southeast through Jan. 24. According to a Notice to Airmen issued by the Federal Aviation Administration, the disruptions began Jan. 16. Disruptions may occur at various times and altitudes from Virginia southward to the Florida Keys, and from Georgia westward to most of Alabama. Across NW Florida, disruptions could be experienced by aircraft flying at 10,000, 25,000 feet and 40,000 feet, depending on the distance from Navy Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 4, operating off the coast of southeast Georgia. The FAA notice indicates GPS disruptions are likely across the areas Jan. 17 until 6 p.m. CST, and from 6 a.m. until 6 p.m. CST next Friday (Jan. 24). The FAA announcement indicated activities were related to “GPS interference testing.” The tests are done periodically to test U.S. defense systems. In addition to GPS, the Navy exercise is expected to affect other air navigation aids including the Wide Area Augmentation System, the Ground Base Augmentation System and the Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast system. The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, a non-profit that advocates for general aviation, has been concerned about GPS interference testing. (Source: NW Florida Daily News 01/17/20) https://www.nwfdailynews.com/news/20200117/navy-exercise-expected-to-disrupt-aircraft-gps-systems-across-southeast?utm_source=SFMC&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=NW%20Florida%20Daily%20News%20daily%202020-01-18&utm_content=INKA_FWN&utm_term=011820