GPS testing in Maryland prompts FAA flight advisory

The FAA has issued a flight advisory for potentially unreliable GPS signals in the vicinity of the Patuxent River Naval Air Station in southern Maryland on certain dates in April and May.

During testing GPS signals may be unreliable or unavailable within a 15-nautical-mile radius centered at 38152N/0762602W, or the PXT VOR’s 225.3-degree radial at 2.2 nm at and below Flight Level 400.

Pilots are encouraged to report anomalies to the appropriate air route traffic control center to help determine the extent of signal degradation. Please share your reports with AOPA.

Notams will be published at least 24 hours in advance of tests, but may change with little or no notice. Pilots are encouraged to check notams frequently for changes to operations in the area. Tests will be conducted during the entirety of stated times, the FAA said.

The testing schedule is set for April 21 through 22 and 25 through 29, and May 2 through 6, 9 through 13, 16 through 20, and 23 through 27, all from 1300Z to 2200Z.