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http://www.airservicesaustralia.com/media/press_releases/pr.asp?id=pr15_05

Enhanced radio system for aviation industry - 15/05

Pilots today began using an enhanced $20 million radio network that
significantly improves the reliability and safety of Australia's long-range
aviation communications system.

The new High Frequency (HF) radio system replaces a 30-year-old HF
communications network. It will be less prone to faults, provide a clearer
signal and have a greater range than the old network.

'We're introducing a system that uses state of the art software and hardware
to provide enhanced signal reception and sensitivity,' Airservices Australia
Chief Executive Officer Greg Russell said.

'The new network is also less susceptible to atmospheric interference, which
will deliver increased reliability for pilots and the aviation industry.'

The new network will be run from six locations around Australia, reducing
the number of transmitter sites by 10. The six site locations are: Darwin,
Alice Springs, Townsville, Broken Hill, Port Hedland and Perth. The
transition to the new network is expected to be complete by November 11.

About 70 per cent of aircraft inbound and outbound from Australia use HF
radio. The improved range will allow Airservices Australia to contact
international aircraft more than 3700 kilometres (2000 nautical miles) from
the mainland.

The new network will mean reduced frequency congestion for international air
traffic, while Australian operators in remote areas such as the Royal Flying
Doctor Service will enjoy greater signal coverage and clarity.

For further information contact
Airservices Media
Ph: +61 2 6257 2828
Mb:

Date: 13 October 2005

Airservices Australia is a Government owned organisation responsible for the
safe and efficient management of air traffic across 11 per cent of the
world's air space. Services include air traffic control, airspace
management, aeronautical information, radar communications, radio navigation
aids, aviation maintenance and engineering, environmental management and
aviation rescue and firefighting. Airservices website:
www.airservicesaustralia.com