A new function for the airport
The airport of Lleida-Alguaire, located in the province of Lleida, had initially been conceived as a secondary airport of El Prat or as a goods terminal. However, he has found other ways to be useful and has diversified his activities.
Currently, Lleida-Alguaire airport functions as a training space for aviation professionals. In addition, work is underway to convert it into a hydrogen production center, a promising technology for sustainable aviation.
In addition, Lleida-Alguaire airport has established itself as a space for aeronautical trials and tests. A test has recently been carried out with the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay System (EGNOS) for unmanned aerial vehicles. This system improves the accuracy and reliability of GPS and offers protection against possible interference.
From the EGNOS system
EGNOS is a support system for air navigation satellite systems. Developed by the EU Space Agency, this system provides additional information and corrects errors in GPS signals. This allows for more accurate navigation and protects users against potential interference.
In the case of Lleida-Alguaire airport, tests have been carried out with the eVTOL EH216-S vehicle from the Chinese company Ehang. These tests aim to enable the capabilities of the EGNOS system on board the autonomous air vehicle and demonstrate how it can support air operations.
Collaboration and involved
The Lleida-Alguaire airport has been possible thanks to the collaboration between various entities. The Chinese company Ehang, world leader in unmanned drone technology, and PildoLabs, a Catalan company specialized in aeronautical and space services, stand out.
In addition, in these tests with the EGNOS system, there is also the participation of ThalesAlenia Space, operator of the EGNOS system, and the Polytechnic University of Timisoara, which specializes in data processing for the development of unmanned aerial vehicles.
So, Lleida-Alguaire airport has found a new function as a multifunctional space for aviation. From training professionals to carrying out tests with innovative technologies such as the EGNOS system, this airport demonstrates its versatility and importance in the aeronautical sector.
