China’s GPS-like BeiDou navigation system recognised as global standard for commercial aviation in ‘important milestone’

China’s BeiDou system, which is similar to the US’ Global Positioning System (GPS), has been recognised by the International Civil Aviation Organisation. The move will bring more benefits to the global community, while it could boost Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative, analysts said. — SCMP

China’s equivalent to the US’ Global Positioning System (GPS) has gained an international qualification that allows it to expand into global commercial aviation, with the “important milestone” a potential boost for the technology, analysts said.

The home-grown BeiDou system has been recognised by the International Civil Aviation Organisation as one of its standards, becoming a universal satellite navigation system for civil flights globally, the Civil Aviation Administration of China said on Wednesday.