Systems Interface Ltd, an ATM Systems Integrator located in Bordon, Hampshire in the UK has been awarded a contract to deliver a key upgrade to the Instrument Approach infrastructure at Donegal Airport. The project includes the supply, installation, commissioning, training, and flight calibration of the new systems.
The delivered equipment includes a new Localiser (LOC) and Distance Measuring Equipment (DME), replacing systems originally installed by Systems Interface in 2010. These systems are essential for precision landings in adverse weather conditions. Systems Interface will also support the development of the safety case in line with EASA regulations.
“Having delivered the original system, we had in-depth knowledge of Donegal’s airfield systems. This positioned us perfectly to implement a cost-effective upgrade by reusing existing infrastructure and avoiding unnecessary civil works,” commented David Chandler, Sales and Business Development Director at Systems Interface.
The instrument approach provides guidance via two key components: the Localiser (LOC), which transmits lateral signals to align the aircraft with the runway centreline, and the Distance Measuring Equipment (DME), which calculates the aircraft’s distance to the runway by measuring the time delay of radio signals exchanged with a ground station. The upgraded system is expected to become fully operational later this year.
