The Future of Loran-C Navigation, Instrument Approaches and Flight Following for Air Traffic Management

Thomas P. Workman

Abstract:	The ever-changing weather conditions that exist in the Gulf of Mexico create an environment that is occasionally unforgiving. From winter's pre-frontal squalls to spring's fast-developing areas of thunderstorms and occasional hurricane. Chevron has operated helicopters in this environment since 1954, evolving from a two helicopter operation to over forty-five aircraft today. Offshore navigation has evolved as well, from basic Dead-Reckoning in the 1950s and 1960s to early versions of the GNS and Loran systems of the 1970s. As petroleum exploration developed farther south into the Gulf during the 198Os, IFR operations became necessary during the winter and spring months. Loran-C had the accuracy to navigate to any location and with the help of weather radar, initiate an approach to 200 feet AGL. Although Chevron USA had not been involved in the Special Use Progam of Offshore IFR Approaches, we were very interested in the accuracy and reliability of Loran-C for our navigational needs. Chevron utilized the Teledyne 711 system for several years until the ANI 7000 became available. The capability to navigate to within 50 feet of a platform was an incredible feat. The savings in fuel costs paid for the unit within six months. In 1987, Chevron was asked to participate in an "Early Implementation Program" utilizing Loran-C for Non-Precision Approaches. We became involved with the FAA and NASA0 in developing the first Loran-C Non-Precision Approach in the United States (stand alone), not requiring any other form of navigational guidance. This approach was established on April 15, 1988 in Venice, Louisiana, and is the safest approach in the area. The technical data gathered from our efforts helped to formulate the current TSO C60b, governing Loran Navigational Equipment.
Published in:	Proceedings of the 1991 National Technical Meeting of The Institute of Navigation January 22 - 24, 1991 Sheraton San Marcos Hotel Phoenix, AZ
Pages:	65 - 67
Cite this article:	Workman, Thomas P., "The Future of Loran-C Navigation, Instrument Approaches and Flight Following for Air Traffic Management," Proceedings of the 1991 National Technical Meeting of The Institute of Navigation, Phoenix, AZ, January 1991, pp. 65-67.
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