Comparing the early ages with the present, you will realize how several modes of transportation have changed drastically. The most wholesome has been the upgrade in aircraft and air transportation that we can agree has made our lives easier.
The following article talks about the difference between GPWS and EGPWS, both of which make aircraft safer and more efficient.
Key Takeaways
- Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS) alerts pilots to potential ground collisions using radio altimeter data, while Enhanced GPWS (EGPWS) adds terrain and obstacle databases for improved accuracy.
- EGPWS provides a “look-ahead” function that anticipates terrain ahead of the aircraft, while GPWS does not offer this feature.
- EGPWS reduces the risk of false alarms and increases situational awareness compared to GPWS, leading to improved safety.
GPWS vs EGPWS
GPWS is an older technology that uses radar altimeters to monitor the aircraft’s altitude above the ground. The system provides an audible and visual warning to the pilot. EGPWS is an advanced version of GPWS that uses a combination of GPS, terrain databases, and other sensors to provide more precise information about the aircraft’s position and the surrounding terrain.
GPWS stands for the ground proximity warning system. Its primary function is to keep track of the safety limits and precautions. If they are being violated or breached, it alerts the pilot.
These include warnings and safety precautions if the plane is too close to the ground or travelling at an unnatural speed.
EGWPS is the advanced form of GPWS, except it provides more security. Since EGWPS can monitor not just the base directly underneath but also around and above, it has a better control and prediction protocol.
Both GPWS and EGPWS are used to monitor accurate information on the location and positioning of the aircraft.
Comparison Table
| Parameters of Comparison | GPWS | EGPWS |
|---|---|---|
| Full form | It stands for Ground Proximity Warning System. | It stands for Enhanced Proximity Ground Warning System. |
| Definition | A system designed by aircraft engineers and pilots to ensure that the aircraft does not pose a threat of running into the ground causing damage. | It protects the landing and take-off of the flight by informing the pilots of the obstacles in the way and the general landform of the land they are flying over. |
| Domain | GPWS is only capable of gathering information on the land just underneath it, meaning it has a small range of focus. | EGPWS is capable of collecting information on a vast stretch of land underneath and around the aircraft, which means it has a larger range of focus. |
| Advance feature | GPWS is the traditional form of protection and does not use GPS. | EGPWS is the more upgraded form of protection and uses GPS. |
| TDS- Terrain Database System | GPWS does not make use of the Terrain database system. | EGPWS makes use of the Terrain database system. |
What is GPWS?
The discovery of ground evaluating sensors became more prominent after the early 1960s; there were a large number of accidents both in the air and on water.
The US government took notice and realized these could have been avoided had there been proper navigation and the obstacles were acknowledged. Hence, GPWS came.
GPWS is precautionary equipment that is used to respond to the pilots about the terrain condition over which the aircraft is flying. During an alert or warning generated by the system, it is up to the crew and pilots to create a safety protocol.
This may include alignment and slowing down or landing elsewhere. Also known as the Terrain Awareness Warning System, a GPWS informs the pilot about any obstacles on the ground.
Care must be taken if the course of the flight is such that it is steep and not steadily controllable. In such a case, the reaction time to the warning may be reduced, which can lead to severe accidents.
Since the focus of the GPWS is narrow, it can gather information on only the part of the ground right underneath the aircraft. This means that the time between the warning and the course of action is minimal as it is.
What is EGPWS?
EGPWS is the advanced version of GPWS. It is more secure and has an increased and imputed time between the identification of the obstacle and the safety protocol.
Advanced as it is, it uses GPS and has a broad focus range. The location on the earth’s database is considered and parallel to the same computers that generate and predict the location of the obstacles.
It is faster, more efficient, and covers a larger area.
It uses the Terrain display technology that produces the highest and lowest point of the landform, considering which the aircraft can either come low or improve its flying level.
The Terrain Database system also enables the EGPWS system to sense the obstacles and elevation of landforms further on, which is even more precautionary and safer for the pilots and the people on board.
Main Differences Between GPWS and EGPWS
- Both GPWS and EGPWS are used for aircraft protection from accidents and damages. However, EGPWS is advanced, while GPWS is the traditional form of the same. EGWPS uses modern and more detailed algorithms, landform comparison sheets, and better equipment in construction.
- Both GPWS and EGWPS use the Continuous Wave Radar technology, where the waves are emitted from the aircraft, picked up by the ground, and then reflected. The time is calculated, and the magnanimity and the distance between the plane and the obstacle are predicted. The difference between these waves’ transmissions and reflections is that they are more accurately received and interpreted in the case of EGWPS.
- GPS consists of an air data system, inertial reference unit, instrumental landing system, altimeters, receiving, and reflecting surfaces. EGWPS uses all the same but also includes a Global Positioning device (GPS).
- One significant difference between the two is the GWPS would be able to register the presence of any building or obstacle even if it is recently built. Since EGWPS is based on GPS and datasheet technology, the presence of the new building or obstacle has to be updated in the sheet. The reference landform sheet should be updated for EGWPS to perform effectively.
- GPWS uses sensors to determine the presence of obstacles, while EGPWS uses a terrain database system.
- https://upcommons.upc.edu/bitstream/handle/2117/340863/EGPWS.pdf?sequence=1
- https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/738350/
Last Updated : 28 July, 2023
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Sandeep Bhandari holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Computers from Thapar University (2006). He has 20 years of experience in the technology field. He has a keen interest in various technical fields, including database systems, computer networks, and programming. You can read more about him on his bio page.
The distinction between GPWS and EGPWS effectively highlights the enhanced safety features and technological advancements introduced in EGPWS. The integration of GPS and terrain databases is a substantial leap forward in aviation safety.
Precisely, Clark Yvette. The evolution of EGPWS has revolutionized the capabilities of modern aircraft in avoiding potential collision risks.
The introduction of EGPWS has undoubtedly elevated the safety measures implemented in air transportation. The ability to anticipate terrain ahead of the aircraft is a game-changer.
Absolutely, Cox Ashley. The look-ahead feature in EGPWS is a significant enhancement in ensuring safe flights.
Both GPWS and EGPWS are vital for the safety of aircraft and passengers. EGPWS, with its extended range of focus, has proven to be more advanced and efficient in providing accurate information about the aircraft’s position and surrounding terrain.
Great insight, Ben17. The contributions of EGPWS in terms of navigation and obstacle detection are truly remarkable.
Absolutely, Ben17. The advancements in technology have significantly improved the safety and effectiveness of air transportation.
The evolution from GPWS to EGPWS marks a crucial development in aviation technology. The incorporation of GPS and terrain databases has greatly improved the precision and reliability of the warning systems.
Well said, Ward Rosie. The accuracy and situational awareness provided by EGPWS are commendable.
I couldn’t agree more, Ward Rosie. The advancements in technology have effectively minimized the risk of errors and false alarms.
The transformation from GPWS to EGPWS signifies a progressive evolution in aviation safety standards. The utilization of advanced technologies has effectively mitigated potential risks and significantly enhanced situational awareness for pilots.
The comparison table effectively outlines the differences between GPWS and EGPWS, making it easier to understand the capabilities of each system.
I completely agree, Lross. The table provides a clear distinction between the two warning systems.
The historical context provided about the development of GPWS is fascinating. It emphasizes the need for advanced warning systems to prevent accidents in air and water transportation.
The comparison between GPWS and EGPWS reveals the significant benefits of adopting advanced technology in aviation. The expanded domain and use of GPS in EGPWS demonstrate substantial progress.
A well-rounded analysis, Caroline Hill. The utilization of the terrain database system in EGPWS has revolutionized flight safety measures.
Absolutely, Caroline Hill. The transition to EGPWS has certainly enhanced the safety and operational capabilities of aircraft.
Both GPWS and EGPWS play integral roles in enhancing the safety measures for airborne operations. The detailed comparison provided sheds light on the significant technological advancements incorporated in EGPWS.
I completely agree, Jamie85. The improvements in EGPWS have undeniably contributed to safer and more efficient air transportation.
The safety advancements achieved through the transition from GPWS to EGPWS have contributed immensely to the reliability and precision of modern aircraft. The utilization of GPS and terrain databases in EGPWS has set a new standard for enhanced safety protocols.
Absolutely, King Neil. The advanced features provided by EGPWS have redefined the safety measures adopted in aviation.
Well-stated, King Neil. The sophistication of EGPWS has undoubtedly elevated the safety and operational efficiency of aircraft.