Vietnam Air Traffic Management Corporation (VATM) on November 10 morning started using a new method of navigation called SID/STAR RNAV 1 at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in an attempt to reduce flight delays.

According to the enterprise, with the application of SID/STAR RNAV 1, aircraft do not have to circle over the airport, thus slashing fuel consumption and improving economic efficiency.  

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 communication between captains and officials sometimes is disrupted, which pose risks.

According to data of VATM, the busiest airport in the country handles 600 takeoffs and landings a day and the number may surge to 720 in certain days. Air traffic congestion causes difficulties to air control.

The new method of navigation enables aircraft to operate on any desired flight paths within the coverage of the station-referenced navigation.

Airlines will benefit from this new method of navigation as it helps airplanes land on schedule and cut flight delays.

SID/STAR RNAV 1 has been applied in many nations but it is used in Vietnam for the first time. If it is used successfully at Tan Son Nhat, VATM will introduce it at Noi Bai International Airport early next year and Danang International Airport at the end of next year before it is utilized at all airports nationwide.

SGT