Satellite Signal Jamming Could Cause Problems at AICM: IFALPA

The International Federation of Air Line Pilots Associations (IFALPA) warns that various operators have reported the loss of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signal during approach operations at Mexico City International Airport (AICM). Signal loss could cause navigation errors and avionics failures, warns the association. IFALPA also urges all crew members to remain focused and avoid distractions when arriving at the terminal. 

In its official notice, IFALPA highlighted that several operators have reported instances of GNSS signal loss at AICM over the past year. Although the loss has primarily impacted the approach phase of flight, the organization emphasized that the threat also extends to terminal operations. GPS signal loss affects arrivals and departures and can trigger multiple alerts for systems relying on internal position accuracy. IFALPA advised flight crews to be aware of these potential risks, minimize distractions and prepare alternative procedures as necessary. 

The identified main threats related to the GNSS signal issue are as follows: loss of signal in the terminal area, interference during instrument approaches and alerts resulting from signal degradation or total loss. As of now, Navigation Services for Mexican Airspace (SENEAM) and AICM have not issued an official statement regarding the problems reported by IFALPA. 

María Larriva, an expert in traffic control, told Tiempo.com that the government had implemented precision arrival procedures using Performance Based Navigation (PBN) to enhance aircraft efficiency. However, since the introduction of these new procedures in 2021, pilots have reported signal losses from the ground at various points during the approach. 

Mexico was downgraded to civil aviation Category 2 by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on May 25, 2021. In its decision, the FAA said that the downgrade followed Mexico’s failure to meet safety standards for commercial aviation. Mexican authorities have been working to regain Category 1 status and the FAA recently conducted an audit to determine Mexico's eligibility. The audit’s results will be published later this year, as previously reported by MBN. To assign a civil aviation category, the FAA evaluates primary aeronautical legislation, operating standards, state civil aviation system and the qualification and training of technical personnel, among other factors. The Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications and Transportation (SICT) announced on June 2 that the audit process was progressing well.