[Avionics Today 07-08-2015] China Eastern successfully validated new Required Navigation Performance Authorization Required procedures (RNP AR) at Yushu Airport with a demonstration flight. China Eastern partnered with Airbus ProSky to design and implement the new procedures. It is the sixth airport that Airbus ProSky has assisted China Eastern in RNP AR deployment.
The Yushu airport sits at an elevation of 12,811ft with high surrounding terrain, presenting China Eastern with challenges that can be addressed by the use of Performance Based Navigation (PBN).
With the new procedures, the airline is able to improve payload by 1.5 metric tons for both runways at Yushu thanks to the procedure optimization. New approach and departure are also being developed to the south of Yushu to provide similar flight efficiency improvements for airlines flying to airports in Tibet.
“PBN procedures are key to enhancing efficiency and safety, particularly in challenging terrain. We know that China Eastern — and its passengers — will benefit from the procedures demonstrated,” stated Cunmei Li, Airbus ProSky regional director.