Positive experiences with the instrument approach at Samedan Regional Airport during the World Ski Championships

The test operation of the satellite-based instrument approach to Samedan regional airport has been successful. Some improvements still need to be made, but there is nothing wrong with a definitive introduction of the procedure.

Despite the good weather in February, three dozen machines used the GNSS IFR arrival and departure during the weeks of the 2017 World Ski Championships. Based on the experiences of pilots, ground participants in Samedan, Skyguide air traffic control, the Air Force and the Federal Office of Civil Aviation, these arrivals and departures have now been evaluated and potential improvements identified.

The attempt did not result in any problems with the approach from Zernez to runway 21, but the approach from Maloja to runway 03 still needs to be slightly adjusted. It leads across Piz La Margna and therefore close to the mountainous terrain.

Before the procedure is finally introduced, regulations must also be found regarding the training rooms of the Air Force and the gliding zone that is important for the Engadin and the work processes and safety rules of the agencies involved must be adapted. Talks about this will now be started quickly.

A novelty for Switzerland

Today, Samedan Regional Airport can only be reached under visual flight conditions. The GNSS-IFR instrument approach method enables an approach even in demanding weather conditions with cloud layers down to 2700 meters. The process relieves pilots and thus ensures greater safety.

In addition, it is now easier to plan flights in advance when it is cloudy, which is a major advantage for Engadin guests arriving by plane.

The GNSS IFR approach through Engadin is a novelty for Switzerland: unlike other instrument approaches, aircraft are not guided by radar on their way to the airport. Precise satellite data guides them onto a glide path, which they can use to pierce the clouds in bad weather. From an altitude of around 2700 meters (8800 feet), pilots must then see the runway or start off.

“There is nothing wrong with a definitive introduction”

“The test operation did not reveal any findings that would speak against the introduction of the procedures,” summarizes project manager Martin Binkert from Engadin Airport AG. “However, various points still need to be clarified before final start-up. Start-up is scheduled for winter 2018/2019. If everything goes smoothly, we will continue to hope for an earlier appointment.”

Contact Engadin Airport AG

Martin Binkert, project manager
+41 81 851 08 21
martin.binkert@engadin-airport.ch