The European GNSS Agency (GSA) has become a member of the International Association of Maritime Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA), where it aims to strengthen dialogue with the maritime sector and survey and respond to segment-specific requirements and needs.
The membership strengthens an already productive cooperation. 
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“The GSA strongly supports IALA’s mission and vision in fostering the safe and efficient movement of vessels globally,” comments GSA Head of Market Development Gian-Gherardo Calini. “The benefits offered by European GNSS, and in particular EGNOS now and EGNOS plus Galileo in the future, make a strong case for the integration of these services in multi-systems receivers, and for an enhanced overall maritime EGNSS market adoption.”
A Platform for Dialogue
IALA brings together the key players in the maritime world, from regulatory authorities to manufacturers, service providers and operators. Thanks to the forum provided by IALA, the European GNSS Agency will be able to interface with a broad range of people and organizations to advocate for the adoption of EGNOS and Galileo to enhance safety and efficiency in the maritime sector.
To liaise with all of these stakeholders is of strategic importance for the GSA, and dialogue is key to bridging the gap in market adoption and leveraging research and development projects in the maritime field.
IALA is specifically interested in satellite navigation solutions that GSA may offer as a key element for their PNT needs within the e-Navigation concept. They are ready to cooperate with GSA on managing stakeholders, fine-tuning user requirements and implementing Galileo after recognition from IMO initiated by EC/GSA. IALA is also interested in transmitting VHF Data Exchange System messages via EU satellites, as this system can become one of the core facilitating elements for both the implementation of e-navigation and the modernization of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS).
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GSA Head of Market Development Gian-Gherardo Calini
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