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Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport is set to overcome a long-standing operational handicap with the introduction of a satellite navigation system known as Performance-Based Navigation (PBN). This cutting-edge technology, scheduled to be operational by the second half of 2026, will address issues that currently lead to diversions and delays during adverse weather conditions.

 

The airport’s runway 27 is notably affected by its geographical and operational constraints. The terrain and proximity to the Armilla air base complicate approaches, resulting in cancellations on days with strong winds exceeding ten knots or poor visibility. Flights are often diverted to other airports, impacting the airport's competitiveness and reliability.

 

The PBN system leverages GPS satellite signals to design flexible flight trajectories, enabling safer and more efficient landings. According to Marta Hernández, head of Enaire’s Airspace and Aeronautical Easements, the technology will help avoid natural obstacles and reduce overflights of populated areas, providing a dual benefit of enhanced safety and reduced environmental impact.

 

The project, led by Enaire, Spain’s national air navigation manager, is currently in the testing phase. A laboratory aircraft is being used to evaluate the quality and safety of the manoeuvres. Following these tests, pilots and air traffic controllers will undergo training, and approvals will need to be obtained from bodies such as the Aviation Safety Agency and the Ministry of Ecological Transition.

 

Initially planned for deployment in 2025, the project’s timeline has been extended due to the complexity of design, validation, and regulatory approvals. Environmental and safety considerations have also contributed to the delay.

 

By implementing PBN, the airport will ensure greater reliability, especially for runway 27, reducing the frequency of diversions and cancellations. Additionally, the system will provide a dependable alternative during ground system failures.

 

Between January and November 2024, Granada-Jaén airport saw 1,030,559 passengers, an increase of 8.9% compared to the same period in 2023, although still 10.4% below pre-pandemic levels. In terms of operations, the airport registered 16,642 movements, a rise of 11.6% from 2023 and 23.2% above 2019 levels. It ranks 22nd in passenger traffic and 25th in operations among Spanish airports.