An algorithm to rationalize a DME network as a backup for GNSS aircraft navigation

The introduction of GNSS as primary mean of aircraft navigation calls for a rationalization of existing ground-based assistance networks. Several studies indicate the DME as the possible back-up solution, and therefore the only radio assistance to be maintained. The paper proposes an algorithm to optimize the DME network and reports, as a test, its application to the Italian case. The results indicate that a strong reduction, higher than 35%, in the number of sites, is possible. Furthermore, the paper confirms the validity of the genetic algorithms, which are the core of the proposed approach, for the network structuring problems.