Kivalliq (July 24/06) - A new satellite-based navigation system could save Northern aviation companies $200 million over the next 15 years.

NAV Canada will spend $10 million to install and maintain an Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast system (ADS-B) in a number of Northern communities, said Ron Singer, spokesperson for NAV Canada. Ground stations in Coral Harbour and Rankin Inlet will have the monitoring installed between 2007-2008.

"The ADS-B system will allow flight paths to be shorter and more opportunities to route aircraft at higher altitudes," said Singer.

A new system would not only benefit local aircraft carriers but larger carriers flying throughout North America and to Europe, he said.

There is no radar technology in the Hudson Bay area so aircrafts must fly 10 minutes apart, at a distance of roughly 80 nautical miles, said Singer.

"ADS-B technology will allow for the normal standard of five nautical miles," said Singer.

"This will benefit a lot of airlines who use the airspace," he said.

The new ADS-B technology would allow for an improved communications system, said Wayne McLeod, operations manager with Keewatin/Kivalliq Air.

Communications could improve, but the ADS-B system may not be cost efficient for smaller airlines, he said.

"It's going to be more of a cost savings for larger airlines," he said.

MacLeod said that the company may not necessarily use the new ADS-B technology. Besides cost, the actual size and weight of the equipment is a major factor to consider, he said.

Along with the new ADS-B system, NAV Canada will install new transmitter/ receivers in a number of Northern communities, said Singer.

The $7.5 million project will see VHF transmitter/receivers in Kugluktuk, Cape Dorset, Pond Inlet, Taloyoak, Resolute and Holman.

"This will allow for improved communications, which will enhance safety, save time and increase opportunities," said Singer.