The Navstar Global Positioning System: A Global Utility?

Abstract

Satellite-based navigation systems are one of the fastest growing sectors of the space industry. The Navstar Global Positioning System (GPS) is a fully operational US military satellite-based navigation system. New applications, both civilian and military, are continually being developed for GPS and increasing numbers of users worldwide are becoming dependent upon this technology. The airline industry is but one segment of the rapidly growing GPS user base. New technologies evolving from GPS are quickly advancing the usefulness of GPS, which presents the need for international and national policy. The users of GPS technology, such as the airline industry, are having considerable influence over the development of GPS policy as a result of civil users exercising increasing control over the system. The use of GPS for navigation by the airline industry presents the unique challenge of integrating air and space law. This paper will discuss pertinent legal and policy issues that will affect the development of GPS policy such as liability, sovereignty, and GPS availability. According to some authorities, as GPS becomes an international utility it may present the requirement for an international organization, like the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) or another consortium to establish the policy. The International Telecommunication Satellite Organization (INTELSAT) may serve as a model for a navigational consortium. This paper examines the various national and international organizations that may serve as models to develop GPS policy in the future.