EASA SIB 2022-02R4: [Correction] Global Navigation Satellite System Outage and Alterations Leading to Communication / Navigation / Surveillance Degradation

What to do

National Competent Authorities should establish contingency procedures, maintain non-GNSS navigation aids, and coordinate with telecommunications authorities to monitor and mitigate GNSS interference. ATM/ANS providers must ensure surveillance resilience, provide timely information to airspace users, and prepare contingency plans for GNSS outages. Air operators should consider the interim radiotelephony phraseology and training recommendations. No explicit compliance deadlines are stated, and recommendations are non-mandatory.

Summary

EASA Safety Information Bulletin 2022-02R4 is a correction and revision addressing the increase in Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) jamming and spoofing incidents affecting communication, navigation, and surveillance in various flight information regions. It applies to National Competent Authorities, Air Traffic Management and Air Navigation Service providers, air operators, and manufacturers of aircraft and ATM/ANS equipment. The bulletin highlights operational impacts such as degraded position, navigation, and timing data, which can affect flight safety and air traffic control communications.

What changed

This revision updates the previous EASA SIB 2022-02R3 by correcting editorial errors and improving consistency. It introduces interim radiotelephony phraseology for pilot-ATS communication, integrates Electronic Flight Bag technology considerations, and adds new operational and training recommendations along with air traffic control capacity management guidance. The document also updates the list of affected flight information regions and refines mitigation strategies.

Why it matters

The bulletin is critical for aviation professionals as GNSS jamming and spoofing can cause misleading navigation and surveillance information, potentially leading to flight deviations, increased workload, and safety risks. Operators and controllers must be aware of these risks to maintain safe operations, especially in geopolitically sensitive areas. Understanding and implementing the recommended mitigation measures helps ensure continued safe navigation and communication despite GNSS disruptions.