The projected benefits of EGNOS for regional airports on the African continent are numerous, including safer landings, increased efficiency, reliable services for passengers and better access to remote regions with less well equipped airports. EGNOS’ coverage already extends into parts of North Africa and the Middle East, with further expansion into the rest of the continent expected to come up during the third EU-Africa Summit, when heads of state and government meet in Tripoli, Libya, at the end of November 2010
“The EC and AUC are currently drafting a joint ‘detailed concept paper’ that will guide decision-makers as they consider the development of important EGNOS services for the African continent,” explained Michel Bosco, Deputy Head of Unit in charge of satellite navigation international relations at the European Commission, Directorate for Industry and Entrepreneurship. Speaking at the second EGNOS and Africa Stakeholders’ Workshop on 14 September in Brussels, he said, “We need to gather political support now. The EU-Africa Summit in November will be a key moment for EGNOS in Africa.”
Representing the African Union Commission, David Kajange, Head of the Transport and Tourism Division, Department of Infrastructure and Energy, said, “The 2008 Lisbon Declaration and subsequent Action Plan and Joint Strategy have Europe and Africa working together as equal partners. The dialogue that has been established is an important one, and we would like to see that process accelerated, including our discussions on the final disposition of the EGNOS programme in Africa.” Read More
