European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service 2026-03-26
2026-03-26
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Since the UK lost access to EGNOS, there has been a significant increase in flight cancellations and higher ticket prices for island communities. The issue is exacerbated by occasional inability of air ambulances to land.
Since we lost access to EGNOS, the number of cancellations to island communities has trebled, putting up the cost of tickets, and occasionally air ambulance flights are unable to get in. That has been the cost of coming out of EGNOS. Will the Minister meet me and his colleague to find a way of progressing this without any further delay?
I would be very glad to meet the right hon. Member and our colleague. We intend to review the role that technologies such as EGNOS can play, especially for remote airports susceptible to adverse weather conditions.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not commit to a specific timeline or details of rejoining EGNOS
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Since losing access to EGNOS, island communities have faced increased flight cancellations, higher ticket prices, and potential issues with air ambulances landing.
Some 40% of flight diversions from Stornoway, Benbecula and Barra airports could have been avoided if we were part of EGNOS. This has significant social and financial implications —schedules are cut, people reconsider living arrangements due to lack of connectivity. Will the Minister consider rejoining EGNOS?
I am cognisant of the fact that air connectivity in the Scottish highlands is not a “nice to have” but an absolute necessity. My officials would be keen to engage with stakeholders as part of the review, obtaining evidence on EGNOS benefits.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not commit to rejoining EGNOS or provide specifics about timelines and next steps
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Island communities face significant social and financial implications due to flight diversions from airports in the absence of EGNOS, with 40% of diversions being avoidable.
Since losing access to EGNOS, 40% of flight diversions from Stornoway, Benbecula and Barra could have been avoided. This has significant social and financial implications —schedules are cut, people reconsider living arrangements due to lack of connectivity. Will the Minister consider rejoining EGNOS?
I thank my hon. Friend for his repeated advocacy on this issue. We intend to review the role that technologies such as EGNOS can play, especially for remote airports susceptible to adverse weather conditions.
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Assessment & feedback
The Minister did not commit to rejoining EGNOS or provide specifics about timelines and next steps
Response accuracy