Radio Navigation Aids Network Optimization Using a Hexagonal Geospatial Indexing System

Ground-based radio navigation aid networks remain a critical component of civil aviation, ensuring the safety and reliability of air transportation. Distance Measuring Equipment (DME) is recognized as a robust backup positioning system capable of supporting the requirements of basic area navigation (RNAV) specifications. The global expansion of Free Route Airspace necessitates the optimization of DME ground networks to maintain the required levels of positioning accuracy and service continuity across all regions of the airspace. This paper proposes an algorithm for DME network enhancement based on airspace representation using a hexagonal geospatial indexing system. The algorithm identifies optimal candidate locations for ground beacon placement by maximizing the spatial distribution of positioning accuracy throughout the considered airspace. The airspace is partitioned into a set of regular hexagonal cells, enabling efficient spatial analysis. Logical operations on cell indices significantly reduce computational complexity compared to classical brute-force methods commonly used in ground network optimization. Spatial characteristic distribution of navigation system error is used to optimize network configuration. A case study of network optimization is presented using the developed software, demonstrating the effectiveness and advantages of the proposed approach.