KARACHI: Disruption of GPS signals at Allama Iqbal International Airport and Sialkot International Airport increased risks to flight safety, citing sources, reports received here said.

Global Positioning System (GPS) system enables pilots to fly aircraft on preferred routes from waypoint to waypoint. Satellite-based radio navigation system provides geolocation and time information to GPS receiver anywhere on or near Earth.

According to details, problem is being reported at around 150-54 nautical miles from Allama Iqbal International Airport and Sialkot International Airports as pilots are facing difficulty during landing and takeoffs due to sudden disappearance of signals of satellite-based radio navigation system.

"More than 25 planes have been affected from December 1 and February 2 due to malfunction of GPS system," well-informed sources told.

In this regard, Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority issued NOTAM [notice containing information essential to personnel concerned with flight operations] for domestic and international flights.

NOTAM warned pilots about GPS signal malfunctioning around 100 km near airports and directed pilots to keep in contact with traffic controller immediately before landing.

NOTAM advised pilots immediately seek guidance from air traffic controller if there are any complications before landing to ensure safe landing.

Published in The Daily National Courier, February, 13 2023

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