Science & Tech · Gadgets & EVs · 4 hrs ago
Airbus A220 to use navigation that can work without GPS
Airbus plans to fit its A220 with Safran’s SkyNaute navigation system, making it the first commercial passenger aircraft to use the technology.
SkyNaute combines satellite navigation with an inertial system that can work without GPS signals.
It is designed to keep the aircraft on course if satellite signals are lost, jammed or replaced with false location data.
This matters because interference with satellite navigation can make it harder for aircraft to determine their position.
SkyNaute uses a hemispherical resonator gyroscope with no moving mechanical parts, which is intended to improve reliability.
The system has previously been used on European military aircraft, helicopters and drones.
Safran plans to raise annual production from 10,000 to 30,000 units by 2032.
Airbus A220 aircraft are set to use Safran’s SkyNaute inertial navigation system, which can work when satellite signals are unavailable or spoofed.
The A220 is described as the first commercial passenger aircraft to use the system.
SkyNaute combines inertial navigation with global satellite navigation data.
Its hemispherical resonator gyroscope has no mechanical parts subject to wear.
Safran plans to raise annual SkyNaute production from 10,000 units to 30,000 by 2032.
- Who
- Airbus and Safran Electronics & Defense. The system is intended for the Airbus A220.
- What
- The A220 is set to receive SkyNaute, an inertial navigation system that can maintain navigation when satellite signals are disrupted or spoofed.
- When
- The reports were published on October 25 and 26, 2026. An installation date is not stated.
- Where
- On Airbus A220 commercial passenger aircraft. A specific location is not stated.
- Why
- To help the aircraft determine its position and maintain its course when satellite signals are unavailable, jammed or falsified.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
The article says aviation has faced more cases of satellite-navigation signal jamming and spoofing.
Reports said the Airbus A220 would use Safran’s SkyNaute system.
Safran plans to increase annual SkyNaute production from 10,000 to 30,000 units.
- Aircraft
- Airbus A220
- Navigation system
- SkyNaute
- System maker
- Safran Electronics & Defense
- Current annual production
- 10,000 units
- Planned annual production
- 30,000 units by 2032