The WAAS will allow GPS to be used as a primary means of navigation from takeoff through Category I precision approach. Other modes of transportation also benefit from the increased accuracy, availability, and integrity that WAAS will deliver. The WAAS broadcast message improves GPS signal accuracy from 100 meters to approximately 7 meters.

The benefits of WAAS to civil aviation will be substantial. WAAS will improve the efficiency of aviation operations due to:

1. Greater runway capability
2. Reduced separation standards which allow increased capacity in a given airspace without increased risk
3. More direct enroute flight paths
4. New precision approach services
5. Reduced and simplified equipment on board aircraft
6. Significant government cost savings due to the elimination of maintenance costs associated with older, more expensive ground-based navigation aids (to include NDBs, VORs, DMEs, and most Category 1 ILSs)

Next: WAAS Structure

GPS/WAAS Information Copyright © 2005 Federal Aviation Administration
For more information, visit gps.faa.gov. Updated by FreeFlight Systems. 2009.