AIM RAC 7.2 states:
“Multilateration (MLAT) increases air traffic service (ATS) situational awareness of aircraft and vehicles on the ground allowing them to safely manage ground movements, including in low visibility operations, by providing full surveillance coverage of runways, taxiways and terminal apron areas. MLAT uses a system of strategically placed ground stations to send interrogations and receive replies from Mode A, C or S transponders.”
Nav Canada’s surveillance display (NAVCANsitu) is based on ICAOs A-SMGCS Manual
- Calgary Airport (YYC) AVOP Manual
- “While in the manoeuvring area, D AVOP holders: Must ensure the vehicle Veelo or transponder is on. ATC may instruct the operator tovacate the manoeuvring area if the Veelo or transponder is non-functional.”
- Toronto Airport (YYZ) AVOP Manual – YYZ Advisory 2025-A-027
- “Operators of Aircraft Tow Tractors, D AVOP Training vehicles and Security Escort vehicles should ensure that their vehicles which are required to operate in the Maneuvering Area are fitted with an approved, functioning transponder […]”
- Vancouver Airport (YVR) AVOP Manual
- “A MLAT vehicle transponder is required for vehicles operating on the manoeuvring area. The only MLAT Vehicle Transponders used at YVR are branded as VeeLo.”
- Montreal Airport (YUL) AVOP Manual
- “Every vehicle present in a controlled area of the maneuvering area shall be equipped with a radio vehicle locator transmitter (VLT), except for vehicles that are part of a convoy; e.g., as part of construction work.”
List of Incidents investigated by the TSB that involves ground equipment transponders:
- 28 January 2019 – A19O0006 Runway Incursion: Toronto/Lester B. Pearson International Airport (Snow Removal Equipment)
- 6 October 2023 – A23W0122 Runway incursion and risk of collision: Calgary International Airport (CYYC), Alberta (Tow Vehicle)