Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Chris Bonett, together with the management of Malta Air Traffic Services (MATS) visited the area of ??the VOR station in Kercem, Gozo where they inaugurated the installation of a new VOR/DME navigation aid for this island.

With an investment of €700,000, the installed system replaced the previous one, which had been in use for over 30 years.

It was explained that through this new system, the safety and efficiency of flights over this region will be significantly improved.

The VOR (VHF Omni-directional Range) provides airplanes and other aircraft with accurate bearing information by sending a directional signal that helps pilots determine their position relative to the VOR station. furthermore, the DME (Distance Measuring Equipment) calculates the aircraft’s distance from the station by sending and receiving signals, allowing for accurate distance measurement.

Minister Chris Bonett said that the installation of this new VOR/DME system in Gozo is a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to improve the national aviation infrastructure.

“We are committed to investing in advanced technology to support the growth and development of our aviation sector and therefore this investment underlines our commitment to maintain the highest standards of aviation safety and reliability in our country,” he said.

The Chief Technical Officer of MATS, Jesmond Farrugia explained how this new system is the only one of its kind in the country, as well as the only one in the Central Mediterranean. ”Therefore it continues to emphasise the value of this investment as this system is covering the entire Mediterranean. Both VOR and DME systems broadcast the identifier `GZO’ in Morse code, ensuring easy recognition by pilots.??”

Photos: DOI

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