Space Weather Services in Commercial Aviation

With the growing dependence on Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) like the U.S.'s Global Positioning System (GPS), and the increasing use of polar routes, commercial aviation's susceptibility to space weather is increasing. GNSS is at the heart of global air traffic management modernization efforts and space weather impacts to these systems can be detrimental to the safe and efficient use of airspace. Additionally, the polar routes can be affected by both communications and navigations issues as well as by increased radiation exposure to passengers and crew. In recognition of this, the global aviation community is moving to include space weather products and services in support of commercial aviation under the framework of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). ICAO is a United Nations specialized agency, created in 1944 upon the signing of the Convention on International Civil Aviation (Chicago Convention). ICAO works with the Convention's 191 Signatory States and global industry and aviation organizations to develop international Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) which are then used by States when they develop their legally-binding national civil aviation regulations. This presentation will focus on how NOAA and partner US government agencies are working closely with ICAO, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), and other States in defining the path forward for how the appropriate space weather services are to be defined and delivered.