On Thursday, the Viet Nam Air Traffic Management Corporation (VATM) started operating a new method of navigation designated as SID/STAR RNAV 1 at the Da Nang International Airport.

A scene of the operation of SID/STAR RNAV 1

The new method enables aircraft to fly on any desired flight course within the coverage station-referenced navigation signal, a huge improvement over conventional methods which are dependent on ground navigation.

RNAV 1 requires little radar navigation aid, thereby decreasing navigated distance, and easing the amount of communication and workload on air traffic controllers and pilots. Air traffic controllers can also maintain a safer and more accurate standard deviation thanks to restriction on one-point air traffic flows.

Thanks to RNAV 1, aircraft do not have to circle over the airport, thus slashing fuel consumption and pollution, as well as improving economic efficiency.  Airlines will also benefit from this new method as it helps airplanes land on schedule and cut flight delays.

Under the old method of navigation, airplanes can land at the airport during off-peak hours but the captain must contact air traffic control officials to demand a time slot during peak hours.  Many aircraft have to circle over the airport, and especially communications between captains and air officials sometimes are disrupted, which pose risks. 

Encouragingly, the adoption of RNAV 1 comes at a time when the city’s airport is dealing with air traffic congestion with a daily average of 230 flight departures and arrivals, and up to 265 per day on peak days.

The new method will help to enhance flight management efficiency in preparation for the 2017 APEC Economic Leaders’ Week (AELW) will take place in his city in November.