SADIS USER GUIDE

Fourth Edition — June 2008

Preliminary edition;
subject to endorsement by the SADISOPSG

(Prepared by the ICAO SADIS Operations Group)

INTERNATIONAL CIVIL AVIATION ORGANIZATION

.

The designations and the presentation of material in this publication do not imply the
expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of ICAO concerning the legal status of
any country, territory, city or area of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its
frontiers or boundaries
 RECORD OF AMENDMENTS AND CORRIGENDA

Chapters 1 to 7 and appendices

Amendment Corrigendum

No. Date Pages affected No. Date Pages affected

1 11.12.08 Appendices C and L 1 27.1.09 Appendix L

Chapter 1. Introduction to SADIS i

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter 1. Introduction to the Satellite Distribution System for Information Page

Relating to Air Navigation (SADIS)

1.1 Background ................................................................................................................................... 1-1

1.2 A brief description of the system................................................................................................... 1-2
1.3 Management of SADIS ................................................................................................................. 1-3
1.4 Authorized access to SADIS ......................................................................................................... 1-3
1.5 SADIS cost allocation and recovery.............................................................................................. 1-4

Chapter 2. Products and data broadcast on SADIS

2.1 Overview of products and data broadcast on SADIS .................................................................... 2-1

2.2 Digital grid point (GRIB) data ...................................................................................................... 2-1
2.3 Digital SIGWX in the BUFR code form ....................................................................................... 2-2
2.4 Digitally coded charts ................................................................................................................... 2-4
2.5 OPMET information in alphanumeric format ............................................................................... 2-4
2.6 Administrative messages............................................................................................................... 2-4
2.7 Broadcast schedules ..................................................................................................................... 2-4
2.8. The evolution of products and data on the SADIS ........................................................................ 2-5

Chapter 3. SADIS second-generation broadcast (SADIS 2G)

3.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................... 3-1

3.2 Overview of the SADIS 2G service .............................................................................................. 3-1
3.3 Data distributed via the SADIS 2G ............................................................................................... 3-1
3.4 User support .................................................................................................................................. 3-1

Chapter 4. Recommended basic requirements for data processing systems

4.1 General requirements .................................................................................................................... 4-1

4.2 Sources of information regarding potential suppliers of
equipment to process/display products and data broadcast on SADIS.......................................... 4-2

Chapter 5: Installing SADIS VSAT

5.1 VSAT installation — factors to be considered.............................................................................. 5-1

5.2 Alignment and testing of the SADIS 2G VSAT unit .................................................................... 5-2
ii Table of Contents

Chapter 6. User support Page

6.1 Technical support by WAFC London .......................................................................................... 6-1

6.2 24-hour WAFC London Service Desk ......................................................................................... 6-1
6.3 General contact facilities during office hours................................................................................ 6-1
6.4 System development contact facilities ......................................................................................... 6-2
6.5 Information on SADIS ................................................................................................................. 6-2
6.6 Assistance to implementation........................................................................................................ 6-2
6.7 SADIS VSAT returns procedure ................................................................................................... 6-2
6.8 Back-up procedures ...................................................................................................................... 6-4

Chapter 7. Glossary................................................................................................................................... 7-1

Appendices

Appendix A — SADIS footprint ............................................................................................................ A-1

Appendix B — Components of SADIS second-generation broadcast (SADIS 2G) ................................B-1
Appendix C — SADIS second-generation (SADIS 2G) configuration................................................... C-1
Appendix D — SADIS Operations Group - Composition and terms of reference ................................ D-1
Appendix E — Guidelines for authorized access to the WAFS satellite broadcast .................................E-1
Appendix F — Agreement on the sharing of costs of the satellite
distribution system for information relating to air navigation ........................................ F-1
Appendix G — Maximum areas of coverage .......................................................................................... G-1
Appendix H — OPMET message formats ............................................................................................. H-1
Appendix I — Data processing systems .................................................................................................I-1
Appendix J — Intelsat 904 - Satellite finder diagram ..............................................................................J-1
Appendix K — SADIS VSAT returns procedures ................................................................................. K-1
Appendix L — List of SADIS 2G hardware and data processing and display suppliers ........................L-1

Annexes (Available only in soft copy at www.icao.int/anb/sadisopsg)

Annex 1 — FASID Table MET 2A ― OPMET information (METAR, SPECI and TAF) required in
ISCS and SADIS
Annex 2 — OPMET information on the SADIS broadcast — listed in terms of aerodromes/location
indicators and States
Annex 3 — OPMET information on the SADIS broadcast — listed in terms of bulletin numbers and
location indicators of aerodromes contained in each bulletin
Annex 4 — WAFS forecasts disseminated on SADIS

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Chapter 1. Introduction to SADIS 1-1

Chapter 1

INTRODUCTION TO THE SATELLITE DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM

FOR INFORMATION RELATING TO AIR NAVIGATION (SADIS)

1.1 Background

1.1.1 The objective of the world area forecast system (WAFS) is to supply meteorological
authorities and other users with global meteorological en-route forecasts in digital form. This
objective is to be achieved through a comprehensive, integrated worldwide, and, as far as is
practicable, uniform system and in a cost-effective manner, taking full advantage of evolving
technologies (Annex 3, 3.1 refers). The meteorological information to be provided comprises
forecasts of global:

a) upper wind;

b) upper-air temperature;

c) upper-air humidity;

d) geopotential altitude of flight levels;

e) direction, speed and flight level of maximum wind;

f) flight level and temperature of tropopause; and

g) significant weather (SIGWX) phenomena.

To facilitate computerized processing, the system provides the products under a) to f) in standardized
digital format using the gridded binary (GRIB) code (WMO FM 92-IX Ext. GRIB refers) and
product g) in the binary universal format for representation of meteorological data (BUFR) code
(WMO FM 94-XII Ext. BUFR refers).

1.1.2 The foregoing products are distributed globally by the two world area forecast
centres (WAFC), London and Washington by satellite broadcast as part of the ICAO aeronautical
fixed service (AFS). WAFS products consist of aeronautical meteorological information of an
operational nature. There is therefore an obligation for ICAO to ensure that all ICAO Contracting
States have access to all the WAFS data they may need through at least one component of the AFS.

1.1.3 The worldwide satellite communications are provided using three INTELSAT
satellites. The United States provide two INTELSAT services for the distribution of
WAFC Washington products over the Americas, Pacific and Eastern Asia, using an INTELSAT
satellite based over the Atlantic Ocean and a second located over the Pacific Ocean. The services
provided by the United States are known as the International Satellite Communications System
(ISCS).

1.1.4 To meet the requirements for WAFS dissemination in Europe, the EANPG
developed a system for the distribution of WAFS data via satellite, as one component of the AFS.
Originally the system was intended to serve the ICAO European (EUR) and Middle East (MID)
Regions, but it was subsequently extended to serve the Africa-Indian Ocean (AFI) Region and the
western part of the ASIA Region. The system is now capable of serving all States in the AFI and
1-2 ` SADIS User Guide

MID Regions and the ASIA and EUR States up to about 140° East and is known as the Satellite
Distribution System for Information Relating to Air Navigation (SADIS).

1.1.5 In order to achieve the eastward extension, the system uses the Indian Ocean
INTELSAT 904 at 60° East. As a result, this broadcast, together with the Washington ISCS
broadcasts, provide the global coverage of WAFS product distribution. This ensures that all States
are able to receive WAFS products using satellite communications from either WAFC London or
WAFC Washington, depending on their location. The “footprint” of the SADIS is shown in
Appendix A.

1.1.6 In order to meet growing requirements for operational meteorological (OPMET)

information in alphanumeric form, such as aerodrome routine meteorological reports (METAR),
aerodrome forecasts (TAF), SIGMET, and special air-reports (special AIREP) a separate channel
(permanent virtual circuit 2) is provided on SADIS through which character-oriented OPMET
information can be disseminated.

1.2 A brief description of the system

1.2.1 SADIS is an operational system dedicated primarily to aeronautical meteorological

information in line with ICAO worldwide provisions. WAFS forecasts and OPMET information are
disseminated without conflict or delay caused by the dissemination of non-operational data. As an
ICAO system forming part of the AFS, it has been designed to meet the worldwide Standards and
Recommended Practices (SARPs) promulgated in ICAO Annex 3 — Meteorological Service for
International Air Navigation and Annex 10 — Aeronautical Telecommunications. This ensures full
availability of the service and the largely error free transmission of all information required for
pre-flight planning. WAFS GRIB and BUFR forecasts will be backed up, with WAFC London and
WAFC Washington products being interchangeable.

1.2.2 SADIS provides a point to multi-point service on a 24-hour basis via satellite.
The SADIS uplink is situated at the Cable & Wireless hub at Whitehill Earth Station, north of
Oxford in the United Kingdom. The WAFS data is provided from WAFC London in the United
Kingdom Met Office (referred to as “Met Office”), Exeter, via terrestrial 64 kilobits per second
(kbps) lines and are uplinked from the hub at Whitehill to the INTELSAT satellite 904 located over
the Indian Ocean at 60°E. The OPMET data is provided by the National Air Traffic Services (NATS)
SADIS Gateway facility at Swanwick near Southampton. Data from the Gateway is transmitted via a
switched virtual circuit (SVC) to the Met Office for onward promulgation via the aforementioned
terrestrial leased lines to Whitehill. The data are downlinked via a global beam to users anywhere in
the AFI and MID Regions and in the ASIA and EUR Regions as far eastwards as 140°E.

1.2.3 The system is designed to deliver the data to the end user in either the “open”
industry standard X.25 format or using the Internet protocol (IP; multicast on UDP or TCP WMO
sockets), allowing freedom to process those data in whatever manner is convenient. The hardware
component of greatest interest to users is the one-way very small aperture terminal (VSAT), supplied
by L.Teq Ltd or Paradigm Communications. The terminal is simple and consists of a 2.4 m diameter
receiving antenna, low-noise block (LNB) and a receiver unit mounted indoors. A processing/display
unit, designed to meet the individual user's requirements and/or communications system, may be
linked into the output port of the VSAT. The components which make up SADIS are shown in
Appendix B. The VSAT and external connections are shown in Appendix C.

1.2.4 SADIS delivers WAFS forecasts in digital format, as well as alphanumeric OPMET
information required for pre-flight planning. Details about the data and products disseminated on
SADIS are given in Chapter 2 of this guide.
Chapter 1. Introduction to SADIS 1-3

1.2.5 In addition to the satellite service, approved SADIS users can access all of WAFS
data using FTP over the Internet (SADIS FTP). Users wishing to access this parallel service should
contact the SADIS Customer Manager to initiate account setup. Contact details are available in
section 6.3. WAFC London has produced a SADIS FTP Service document, available to download
from a link on URL: http://www.icao.int/anb/sadisopsg/. The document is reviewed on a regular
basis and updated as required.

1.3 Management of SADIS

1.3.1 As SADIS is a multi-regional service provided by one State to serve a number of

ICAO Contracting States, it is necessary to enable the user States to have an influence over the
content and schedule of the SADIS and the medium- and long-term management of the system to
ensure that their requirements and those of the end-users are adequately met. A SADIS Operations
Group (SADISOPSG) has therefore been established composed of representatives of the SADIS
Provider and user States in the SADIS area and international organizations concerned. The group
ensures that the information required by users is provided so as to meet their requirements and will
act on behalf of users to address complaints and any difficulties which have not been resolved by the
normal day-to-day operational control over the system by WAFC London. It will also integrate new
requirements on the system and identify operational adjustments to the service. The composition and
terms of reference of the group are given in Appendix D.

1.3.2 The United Kingdom has been invited by ICAO to implement SADIS in accordance
with ICAO specifications for the system. Contractual agreements exists between the
United Kingdom Met Office and commercial service providers for the operation and maintenance of
the SADIS service. As a consequence, WAFC London manages the day-to-day operational control of
the system in direct contact with the commercial service providers. WAFC London ensures that the
data required by all users are delivered via SADIS in accordance with ICAO provisions. In addition,
WAFC London liaises with the commercial service providers on matters related to the users' VSAT
equipment and any problems experienced (see Chapter 6).

1.4 Authorized access to SADIS

1.4.1 It is incumbent upon user States to arrange access to the satellite broadcasts for the
reception of WAFS products and OPMET data, and to arrange for their national distribution, in line
with the provisions of Annex 3, Section 2.1. In order for the authorities in the individual States to
retain control over the national distribution it is necessary to identify those users who are authorized
to receive the SADIS broadcast directly.

1.4.2 Access to SADIS by an end user will only be granted after authorization by each
ICAO Contracting State concerned. The authorization will be based upon advice by the
meteorological authority of the respective State as defined in Annex 3, Chapter 1, and Chapter 2,
paragraph 2.1.4 and will be communicated to ICAO and also to the United Kingdom Met Office by
the authorizing State itself. Guidelines to assist States in authorizing access to SADIS, which were
noted by the ICAO Council, are reproduced in Appendix E.
1-4 ` SADIS User Guide

1.5 SADIS cost allocation and recovery

A mechanism for the recovery of the costs incurred by the SADIS Provider State has
been developed. The SADIS cost allocation and recovery scheme is based on mandatory
participation by the SADIS user States and is administered by the SADIS Cost Recovery
Administrative Group (SCRAG). States included in the United Nations list of Least Developed
Countries (LDCs) are exempt from the cost recovery scheme. The participating States will contribute
towards the scheme in proportion to the number of IFR flights in their airspace and recover these
contributions from the airspace users through en-route charges. A copy of the agreement for sharing
of costs for SADIS is provided in Appendix F.

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Chapter 2. SADIS products 2-1

Chapter 2

PRODUCTS AND DATA BROADCAST ON SADIS

2.1 Overview of products and data broadcast on SADIS

2.1.1 The information broadcast on the SADIS comprises WAFS forecasts as defined in
Annex 3 ―Meteorological Service for International Air Navigation, Chapter 3 and Appendix 2, in
digital format using the WMO GRIB and BUFR code forms, as well as OPMET information in
alphanumeric format.

2.1.2 The set of information distributed on SADIS is delivered as follows:

a) all upper air forecasts in GRIB-code form bulletins;

b) significant weather forecasts in BUFR-code form bulletins and portable

network graphics (PNG) chart format;

c) graphical volcanic ash advisories in portable network graphics (PNG) chart

format and, in future, BUFR-code form; and

d) OPMET information in alphanumeric format.

2.1.3 The required levels for upper-air forecasts (including upper wind forecasts) and for
SIGWX forecasts with corresponding valid times, are contained in Annex 3, Appendix 2. The
WAFS forecasts have a global coverage, except for SIGWX forecasts for medium levels which are
prepared for limited geographical area, subject to regional air navigation (RAN) agreement. The
receiver of WAFS forecasts can freely select the area of coverage; however, as a minimum it is
recommended that a set of standard areas of coverage as shown in Appendix G can be readily
produced using the decoding software and can be issued whenever required by users.

2.2 Digital grid point (GRIB) data

2.2.1 WAFCs London and Washington products consist of forecasts of global:

a) upper wind;

b) upper-air temperature;

c) upper air humidity;

d) direction, speed and flight level of maximum wind;

e) flight level and temperature of tropopause; and

f) geopotential altitude data of standard WAFS flight levels.

Each centre provides a back-up for the other so that if a failure occurs at one centre, routine products
can be generated using the data from the other centre. The data are generated on an agreed grid and
coded in a binary format using the GRIB code form (WMO FM 92-IX Ext. GRIB) for efficient
distribution. Users intending to use the data must therefore have a data processing system able to
2-2 SADIS User Guide

read the binary code, decode the information and manipulate the data for the user's specific purpose.
To produce charts, visualization software is required.

2.2.2 The WAFS products in the GRIB code form are presented as a series of bulletins.
Each bulletin contains a grid point field of a single parameter at a single level as a continuous bit
stream made of a sequence of bytes (1 byte = 8 bits) within a communications envelope.

2.2.3 The WAFS digital grid point data are based on a grid defined as a
1.25°x 1.25°latitude/longitude thinned grid, where the points are spaced approximately 140 km apart
over the whole globe. The globe is divided into 8 octants covering areas between the Equator and
each Pole, and divided in 90° segments either side of the 30°W meridian. Decoding software is
available from WAFC London to enable the information to be interpolated and presented on a
regular latitude/longitude grid.

2.2.4 The required flight levels for which forecasts of upper wind, upper-air temperature
and geopotential altitude data of standard WAFS flight levels issued are: FL 050, 100, 140, 180, 240,
300, 340, 390, 450, and 530 (850, 700, 600, 500, 400, 300, 250, 200, 150 and 100 hPa). Forecasts of
upper-air humidity are issued for FL 050, 100, 140 and 180 (850, 700, 600 and 500 hPa).

2.2.5 The whole data set covers forecasts valid for 06, 12, 18, 24, 30 and 36 hours after
the time of the synoptic data on which they are based, and contain at each grid point data on all the
parameters listed under 2.2.1 above. This amounts to approximately 10 Mbytes of data per model run.
These forecast data are broadcast on SADIS every 6 hours based on the 0000, 0600, 1200 and 1800
UTC synoptic data with transmission completed by 0430, 1030, 1630 and 2230 UTC, respectively.

2.2.6 The GRIB data have a number of applications for users, e.g. to calculate specific leg
winds for detailed flight planning, or to create charts of selected map areas or routes using
visualization software. Depending on their requirements, users may wish to use all the global data, or
may choose to use only the data for selected octants. The visualization software of the work stations
should permit the flexible use of the data to the benefit of the user.

2.3 Digital SIGWX in the BUFR code form

2.3.1 The SADIS broadcast includes forecasts of global SIGWX for high levels
(i.e. between FL 250 and FL 630) issued by WAFCs London and Washington. Furthermore, SIGWX
forecasts for medium levels (i.e between FL 100 and FL 250) are issued by the WAFCs for limited
areas, in accordance with RAN agreement. Each centre provides a back-up for the other so that if a
failure occurs at one centre, routine products can be generated using the data from the other centre.
The data are coded in a binary format using the BUFR code form (WMO FM 94-XII Ext. BUFR) for
efficient distribution. Users intending to use the data must therefore have a data processing system
able to read the binary code, decode the information and manipulate the data for the user's specific
purpose. To produce charts, visualization software is required.

2.3.2 The WAFS SIGWX forecasts in the BUFR code form are presented as a series of
bulletins. Each bulletin contains a single parameter (except the bulletin used for in-cloud
medium-level icing and turbulence) as a continuous bit stream made of a sequence of bytes (1 byte =
8 bits) within a communications envelope, as follows:
Chapter 2. SADIS products 2-3

SIGWX for high levels:

a) embedded CB;

b) clear-air turbulence;

c) flight level of tropopause;

d) tropical cyclones, sandstorms, volcanic eruptions and accidental release of

radioactive material; and

e) jetstreams;

SIGWX for medium levels:

a) embedded CB;

b) clear-air turbulence;

c) in-cloud turbulence and icing;

d) flight level of tropopause;

e) tropical cyclones, sandstorms, volcanic eruptions and accidental release of

radioactive material; and

f) jetstreams.

Note. ─ Amendment 74 to ICAO Annex 3 removed requirement for surface fronts and
convergence zones on WAFS SIGWX forecasts. To minimise downstream impacts for users by
withdrawing the related BUFR bulletins, the two WAFCs have continued to transmit SWH frontal
system bulletins (JUFE00 EGRR/KKCI), but they are empty (i.e. contain no data).

2.3.3 The BUFR data sets (high- and medium-level) cover forecasts valid for 0000, 0600,
1200 and 1800 UTC. This amounts to approximately 2 Mbytes of data per day. These forecast data
are broadcast on SADIS every 6 hours based on the 0000, 0600, 1200 and 1800 UTC synoptic data.
Transmission of high-level BUFR data sets is at 0700, 1300, 1900 and 0100 UTC, respectively (i.e.
17 hours ahead of validity). Transmission of medium-level BUFR data sets is at 0800, 1400, 2000
and 0200 UTC, respectively (i.e. 16 hours ahead of validity). When operating in backup mode, the
high-level BUFR data set will continue to be transmitted at 17 hours ahead of validity, whilst the
medium-level BUFR data set will be transmitted at 0900, 1500, 2100 and 0300 UTC, respectively
(i.e. 15 hours ahead of validity).
2-4 SADIS User Guide

2.3.4 The BUFR data is used to create charts of selected map areas or routes.
Workstations should have visualization software which should permit the conversion of BUFR
bulletins into charts. Software vendors should also make sure to include in their visualization
software a feature which will depict the boundaries of the WAFS medium-level BUFR-coded
SIGWX forecasts when reproduced in the chart form.

2.4 Digitally coded charts

Digitally coded WAFS SIGWX charts in portable network graphics (PNG) format
are distributed via SADIS every 6 hours (as routine) as a backup to the BUFR-coded SIGWX
forecasts. Graphical volcanic ash advisories in PNG chart format (and, in future, BUFR-code form)
are issued by the Volcanic Ash Advisory Centres (VAAC) Anchorage, Buenos Aires, Darwin,
London, Montreal, Tokyo, Toulouse, Washington and Wellington, and distributed via SADIS when
available.

2.5 OPMET information in alphanumeric format

2.5.1 OPMET information in alphanumeric format includes METAR, SPECI, TAF,

SIGMET and AIRMET information, GAMET area forecasts, volcanic ash and tropical cyclone
advisories, and special AIREPs.

2.5.2 Aeronautical meteorological information exchanged on the aeronautical fixed

telecommunication network (AFTN) is in the so-called AFTN message format described in
Annex 10, Volume II, Figures 4-1 and 4-4. Examples of the format are given in Appendix H.

2.5.3 When METAR, SPECI or TAF are intended for distribution in bulletin form, a
WMO abbreviated heading is added in the first line of the text of the message to facilitate the
compilation of the various METAR, SPECI and TAF into the appropriate bulletins. The WMO
abbreviated heading is described in detail in document WMO No 386 — Manual on the Global
Telecommunication System, and is explained briefly in Appendix H.

2.5.4 The AFTN message format reflects the point-to-point nature of the network and is
not appropriate for distribution of aeronautical meteorological information by means of a broadcast.
In this case the WMO abbreviated heading is used to identify the information being broadcast and
the message is stripped of its AFTN message envelope. The resulting message is in the format used
for the SADIS broadcast. An example of a TAF message in the AFTN envelope as it would be sent
by a TAF collection centre, and stripped of the AFTN envelope for broadcast on SADIS is given in
Appendix H.

2.6 Administrative messages

The information broadcast on SADIS includes also administrative messages

disseminated in an alphanumeric format.

2.7 Broadcast schedules

2.7.1 The information broadcast on SADIS will be disseminated as soon as it becomes

available at the uplink. Therefore, the system will not operate with an absolute timetable. However,
there will be a general schedule for the transmission of the various products to ensure that the
Chapter 2. SADIS products 2-5

information is received when it is needed, and in the case of forecasts before the commencement of
the period of validity.

2.7.2 Digital grid point data will be disseminated via SADIS four times per day, derived
from the global model forecast runs based on 0000, 0600, 1200 and 1800 UTC synoptic data with
transmission to be completed by 0430, 1030, 1630 and 2230 UTC, respectively.

2.7.3 OPMET information in alphanumeric format will be disseminated as soon as the

messages are received.

2.7.4 SIGMET and AIRMET information, volcanic ash and tropical cyclone advisories,
and special air-reports are information of immediate concern to aircraft in flight or about to depart.
In line with Annex 10, Vol. II, 4.4.1.1.3 and 4.4.1.1.4, these messages are distributed without delay.

2.7.5 A complete list of SADIS broadcast content and bulletin number etc. is provided in
Annexes 1 to 4 to this guide which are kept up-to-date and provided on the ICAO SADISOPSG
website at: http://www.icao.int/anb/sadisopsg. Annex 1 is a “formal” table of OPMET requirements
based on the relevant RAN plans. In response to periodic inquiries from ICAO, States concerned
have indicated their agreement to, or in some cases not indicated disagreement to, the inclusion of
OPMET data from aerodromes listed in Annex 1 to the broadcast on the SADIS. Annexes 2 and 3
are prepared routinely every six months by the Brussels International OPMET Data Bank on behalf
of the EUR Bulletin Management Group (BMG). Annex 4 lists all the WAFS forecasts broadcast
disseminated on SADIS. Furthermore, a list of the graphical volcanic ash advisories available on
SADIS are included in Annex 4.

2.8 The evolution of products and data on SADIS

It is expected that the list of products available on SADIS will evolve with time to
respond to new requirements of States and end-users. This evolution of product availability will be
managed by the SADIS Operations Group (SADISOPSG).

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Chapter 3. SADIS second-generation broadcast (SADIS 2G) 3-1

Chapter 3

SADIS SECOND-GENERATION BROADCAST (SADIS 2G)

3.1 Introduction

3.1.1 The SADIS second-generation broadcast (SADIS 2G) was introduced during
November 2004 as an addition to the original, first generation SADIS broadcast (SADIS 1G). The two
services were provided in parallel until 31 December 2008, from when the SADIS 1G service will be
terminated.

3.1.2 The SADIS 2G service is engineered to be flexible and non-prescriptive with regard
to end user protocols, and takes advantage of new communication technologies. The SADIS 2G
service is provided using the Intelsat 904 satellite, located over the Indian Ocean at 60º East.

3.2 Overview of the SADIS 2G service

3.2.1 The SADIS 2G service utilizes duplicate communications hardware, wherever

possible, to minimize single points of failure. It is engineered around the Internet protocol (IP) but
uses the VSAT protocol over the sky for maximum efficiency. The VSAT protocol is demodulated at
the user site and data are presented to user end systems via either simulated TCP/IP (UDP multicast –
recommended, or WMO sockets) or X.25 PVCs. The preference of output protocol needs to be
specified by the user prior to hardware purchase so that the appropriate configuration can be
implemented within the indoor equipment. The components which make up the SADIS 2G are shown
in Appendix B.

3.2.2 Since the SADIS 2G is a one-way broadcast-only service, genuine two-way

communication is not possible. This requires the indoor equipment to provide simulated X.25 or
TCP/IP output protocol because both protocols normally require a two-way flow of information.

3.2.3 Overall data throughput through the service is provided at speeds of up to 64 Kbps.
OPMET data are sourced from the SADIS Gateway provided by National Air Traffic Services (NATS)
in the United Kingdom.

3.3 Data distributed via the SADIS 2G

The WAFS and OPMET data distributed via SADIS 2G is outlined in Annexes 1, 2, 3,
and 4 to this guide.

3.4 User support

The SADIS 2G service support is detailed in Chapter 6 to this guide. The list of
SADIS 2G hardware suppliers is provided in Appendix L.

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Chapter 4. Recommended basic requirements
for data processing systems 4-1

Chapter 4

RECOMMENDED BASIC REQUIREMENTS FOR DATA

PROCESSING SYSTEMS

4.1 General requirements

4.1.1 To receive SADIS, users need a VSAT from one of the hardware providers,
L.Teq Ltd. or Paradigm Communications. Users are then free to choose their own processing and
display systems to connect to the VSAT according to their own individual requirements.

4.1.2 Users should investigate whether or not their own message switch and/or computer
system is SADIS compatible. Users are also advised to check that any display system which they may
consider purchasing is capable of generating products which comply with the formats and
specifications laid down in Annex 3, including the generation of products from GRIB- and BUFR-
coded bulletins. It is recommended that users consult with a number of different suppliers prior to be
being committed to expenditure.

4.1.3 Users should check specific system configurations with individual suppliers.

4.1.4 A set of recommended basic requirements for VSAT data processing systems is given
in Appendix I.

4.1.5 Data processing systems for processing these data must ensure the integrity of the
information and be compatible with the SADIS delivery of data. This data can be presented to the
end system either as X.25 PVCs, or using IP. The choice of protocol needs to be made at the time of
purchase from the hardware supplier. For flight safety reasons it is essential that any data outside of
their validity period are not retained on the system and displayed for operational use. However, the
system should ensure that data received via SADIS are stored and displayed for a user on request
during their validity period, or until they are amended by a subsequent updated version.

4.1.6 The data stored on the system should be made available to a user by visual reference
on a screen display, and printed for permanent reference, e.g. as flight documentation. All products
either displayed or printed should include a clear reference to the date and time of access and the
validity times of the data. Systems should be programmed to avoid data from a previous day being
incorrectly used. It should be noted that there is an obligation for States to retain flight
documentation for at least 30 days, in case of an inquiry (Annex 3, 9.3.4). This storage requirement
should be considered by users when making their choice of end-user system.

4.1.7 A number of the display packages enable users to manipulate the information
presented to the workstation in BUFR format. This may be a useful feature for users who wish to use
their workstation for the production of national products. However it is important that users
appreciate that any modification to the meteorological content of information transmitted via SADIS
invalidates that information as being a WAFS forecast. In such a case the forecast becomes a
national product. It is imperative that such a change is clearly reflected in the legend that would be
assigned to the product.
4-2 SADIS User Guide

4.2 Sources of information regarding potential suppliers of equipment to

process/display products and data broadcast on SADIS

4.2.1 A list in alphabetical order of potential suppliers is available on request from:

The SADIS Customer Manager,

International Services, WAFC London
Met Office
Fitzroy Road, Exeter, Devon
United Kingdom, EX1 3PB

Tel: + 44 (0) 1392 884 892

Fax: + 44 (0) 1392 885 681
E-mail: enquiries@metoffice.gov.uk

The names of suppliers and their websites is also available from URL:
http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/sadis/about/manufacturers.html

4.2.2 Information concerning potential suppliers of processing equipment may also be

obtained from:

Director, Technical Co-operation Bureau

International Civil Aviation Organization
999 University St., Suite 25-098
Montreal, Quebec
Canada H3C 5H7

E-mail: procurement@icao.int
Central telephone number: +1 (514) 954-8219
Central facsimile number: +1 (514) 954-6287

Note.— The inclusion of an individual supplier in these lists does not imply that
their system has been evaluated or approved by ICAO or WAFC London.

Additional advice is provided in Appendix I to users considering purchasing a data processing

system.

————————
Chapter 5. Installing SADIS VSAT 5-1

Chapter 5

INSTALLING SADIS VSAT

5.1 VSAT installation – factors to be considered

Full installation instructions will be provided with VSAT hardware. However, the
following matters should be addressed prior to any other preparatory work:

a) is there a clear line of sight to the satellite from the proposed location?

b) is there access for the transport of equipment e.g. check lifts (elevators),
doorways etc?

c) are there structural implications if roof mounted, e.g. load bearing capability, non
penetrable mounts and ballast? Total weight of antenna (2.4 m diameter) plus
brackets and base assembly is approx. 450 kg; ballast to secure structure is 1 500
kg; total weight including ballast is 1 950 kg; footprint required for non-
penetrating mount is approximately 25 mz. A civil engineer consultancy may be
required to ascertain this?

d) is planning or installation permission required in any particular State/location?

e) do any changes to be made comply with local building regulations?

f) consider runs of cable to end user. In this respect 75 m is the normal maximum;
beyond this, ascertain line amplifier requirements.

g) the main power requirement is 90 to 265 volts AC, 50/60 Hz, 300 watts.

h) how reliable is the power supply? An uninterruptible power supply backup may
need to be considered.

i) third party insurance, e.g. in the event of a dislodged antenna causing injury.

j) storage of sub-systems and equipment prior to installation.

k) interference — spurious emissions may cause problems with air navigation

equipment or explosive devices;

l) survivability of the antenna, although the manufacturer will specify this, due
regard must be paid to the support structure which holds it in place. and

m) access for the maintenance of the equipment.

Note.— The required ballast must be supplied by the user. This can be sandbags,
concrete blocks or any other suitable medium providing the required weight.
5-2 SADIS User Guide

5.2 Alignment and testing of the SADIS 2G VSAT unit

5.2.1 Once installation is complete final alignment and testing can take place. Only three
connections need to be made to the receiver for alignment purposes.

a) mains connector;

b) co-axial (RG6) feed, or equivalent, from the antenna; and

c) data output — this is 37 or 25 way D-type connector (depending on the modem

type) labelled “composite data”.

5.2.2 The downlink frequency for SADIS 2G VSATs is 4078.25 MHz.

5.2.3 Full details can be provided by L.Teq Ltd. or Paradigm Communications, but, in
general, for the installation of one-way VSATs, the procedure is straightforward and is a matter of
aligning the antenna to the satellite initially by either a) compass and inclinometer, using the satellite
finder diagram shown in Appendix J; or b) utilizing the modem to look at the receive (Rx) level and
signal-to-noise ratio (Eb/No) for final peeking of the antenna. An analogue voltmeter (such as an
AVO) in preference to a digital voltmeter may also be used to fine-tune the electrical alignment
when employing method a).

————————
Chapter 6. User Support 6-1

Chapter 6

USER SUPPORT

6.1 Technical support by WAFC London

End users of SADIS equipment may obtain technical support directly from WAFC London. The staff
will assist in any way possible to resolve problems experienced by users if the fault lies within
SADIS. They may of course find that the fault lies within the user's own receiving equipment
downstream of the VSAT.

6.2 24-hour WAFC London Service Desk

Tel.: +44 (0) 1392 88 66 66

Fax: +44 (0) 1392-88 44 12
E-mail: servicedesk@metoffice.gov.uk

6.3 General contact facilities during office hours

The SADIS Customer Manager

International Services, WAFC London,
Met Office, Fitzroy Road
Exeter, Devon
United Kingdom EX l 3PB
Tel: +44 (0) 1392-884892
Fax: +44 (0) 1392 885 681

L.Teq Ltd.
(VSAT receiver technical enquiries relating to L-Teq hardware)
Tel: +44 (0)1276 685389
Fax: +44 (0)1276 686218

Paradigm Communications
(VSAT receiver technical enquiries relating to Paradigm supplied
hardware)
Tel: +44 (0)870 902 4000 or +44 (0)1420 88199
Fax: +44(0)870 902 4001 or +44 (0)1420 88842

6.4 System development contact facilities

6.4.1 Sample data for each of the products available via SADIS can be provided by
WAFC London for individual system development and trials. Requests to access the test database
should be directed to the SADIS Customer Manager.

6.4.2 WAFC London can also provide advice and guidance on GRIB and BUFR encoded
data and applications.
6-2 SADIS User Guide

6.5 Information on SADIS

6.5.1 The purpose of this SADIS User Guide is to give an overview of the system and
provide helpful information to potential users. It is intended to complement the technical manuals
which will accompany the individual VSAT and workstation equipment. The SADIS User Guide is
only available on the ICAO SADISOPSG website at URL: http://www.icao.int/anb/sadisopsg .

6.5.2 A colour SADIS 2G brochure giving a brief description of the system and services
available has been produced and is available from WAFC London. Additional system information is
available from the Met Office SADIS website at URL:
http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/sadis/index.html .

6.5.3 WAFC London also publishes an Aviation Newsletter (at least annually) which
contains the latest news on developments concerning SADIS as well as other matters related to
aeronautical meteorology. The newsletter is available for download at URL:
http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/aviation/services/internationalairnavigation.html .

6.6 Assistance to implementation

6.6.1 Seminars and workshops on the implementation of the WAFS and SADIS are
organized from time to time in close coordination between ICAO, WMO and WAFC London.
The SADIS User Guide forms part of the material to accompany these events.

6.6.2 Technical assistance may be obtained in various forms. It is recommended that

requests for technical assistance from ICAO be included in the framework of existing
ICAO technical co-operation projects.

6.6.3 Information is available about the “thinned” grid used for the GRIB code, and about
the way in which features encoded in BUFR should be displayed in the following WAFC London
documents:

Exeter Numerical Weather Prediction GRIB Products Guide (available from URL:
http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/research/nwp/numerical/operational/products/) ; and

Guidelines for Representing WAFS Significant Weather (SIGWX) Data in BUFR

(available from URL: http://www.icao.int/anb/wafsopsg/) .

6.7 SADIS VSAT returns procedure

6.7.1 The following procedure will apply to any SADIS VSAT receiving equipment that
has become defective and needs to be repaired, including items that are still under warranty. Any
item returned without seeking prior authorization from the SADIS 2G integrators (L.Teq Ltd. and
Paradigm Communications) may only be repaired at the discretion of the company.
Chapter 6. User Support 6-3

6.7.2 Before returning any equipment, please fax a request for a return materials
authorization (RMA) number as indicated in Appendix K to:

For all hardware that was procured through L.Teq Ltd., contact:

L.Teq Customer and Technical Support

Tel: +44 (0)1276 685389
Fax: +44 (0)1276 686218
Email: service@lteq.com

or

For hardware procured through Paradigm Communications, contact:

Paradigm Communications Support

Tel: +44 (0)870 902 4000
Fax: +44 (0)870 902 4001
Email: support@paracomm.co.uk

Please state clearly the following:

a) equipment type;

b) serial number;

c) date of purchase (approximately);

d) purchase order number (if known);

e) nature of defect;

f) senders name;

g) senders fax number;

h) company name/address; and

i) return address if different from above.

6.7.3 An RMA number will then be issued together with details of where to send the
equipment and paperwork for customs purposes. Following receipt of an RMA number, a SADIS
receiver fault report should be completed and faxed to the appropriate SADIS 2G integrator (L.Teq
or Paradigm Communications), as indicated in Appendix K.

6.7.4 The following conditions will apply to all items returned for repair, unless subject to
separate agreements:

a) repairs will be returned in “as received” condition and NOT refurbished to “as
new” standard;

b) the SADIS 2G integrator reserves the right to charge a fee and shipping costs for
“no fault found”; and
6-4 SADIS User Guide

c) the SADIS 2G integrator will issue a quotation for the minimum inspection costs
of equipment that is outside of the manufacturers warranty period.

6.8 SADIS back-up procedures

In the unlikely event of a failure of SADIS satellite broadcast, the parallel SADIS
FTP Service can be used as a back-up to the SADIS broadcast. All the authorized SADIS users can
access all of the operational WAFS forecasts and OPMET data using the SADIS FTP Service over
the Internet. Approved SADIS Users wishing to access the SADIS FTP service, but who do not yet
have account access, should contact the SADIS Customer Manager to initiate account setup.

————————
Chapter 7. Glossary 7-1

Chapter 7

GLOSSARY
Abbreviations terms and acronyms

AFI Africa-Indian Ocean (ICAO region) NATS National Air Traffic Services
AFS Aeronautical fixed service
AFTN Aeronautical fixed OPMET Operational meteorological
telecommunication network (information)
AIREP Air-report
AMBEX AFI MET Bulletin Exchange
(scheme) RAN Regional air navigation (meeting,
agreement)
BMG Bulleting Management Group ROBEX Regional OPMET Bulletin
BUFR Binary universal form for the Exchange
representation of meteorological
data SADIS Satellite distribution system for
information relating to air
EANPG European Air Navigation Planning navigation
Group SADISOPSG SADIS Operations Group
EUR European (ICAO region) SCRAG SADIS Cost Allocation and
Recovery Administrative Group
FBU Flight briefing unit SIGMET Information concerning en-route
FIR Flight information region weather phenomena which may
FL Flight level affect the safety of aircraft
operations
GRIB Gridded binary code (WMO) SIGWX Significant weather (charts,
forecasts)
ICAO International Civil Aviation SPECI Aerodrome special meteorological
Organization report
INTELSAT International Telecommunications
Satellite Organization TAF Aerodrome forecast
IP Internet Protocol
ISCS International Satellite UK United Kingdom
Communication System UTC Co-ordinated Universal Time
VSAT Very small aperture terminal
LDC Least developed countries
LNB Low noise block WAFC World Area Forecast Centre
(London and Washington)
METAR Aerodrome routine meteorological WAFS World area forecast system
report WMO World Meteorological
MHz Megahertz Organization
MID Middle East Regional Office, Cairo
(ICAO)
7-2 SADIS User Guide

Reference Documents

Air Navigation Plan — Africa-Indian Ocean Region (Doc 7474)

Air Navigation Plan — Asia and Pacific Regions (Doc 9673)
Air Navigation Plan — Caribbean and South American Regions (Doc 8733)
Air Navigation Plan — European Region (Doc 7754)
Air Navigation Plan — Middle East Region (Doc 9708)
Air Navigation Plan — North Atlantic Region (Doc 9634)
AFI MET Bulletin Exchange (AMBEX) Handbook (available from the ICAO WACAF and ESAF Offices)
Regional OPMET Bulletin Exchange (ROBEX) Handbook (available from the ICAO APAC Office
Catalogue of OPMET Data in European MET Data Banks (available from the ICAO EURNAT Office)

————————
Appendix A A-1

APPENDIX A

SADIS FOOTPRINT

————————
Appendix B B-1

APPENDIX B

COMPONENTS OF SADIS SECOND-GENERATION BROADCAST (SADIS 2G)

(See 1.2.3)
B-2 SADIS User Guide

Simplified end-to-end topology of SADIS 2G service

————————
Appendix C C-1
1

APPENDIX C

SADIS SECOND-GENERATION (SADIS 2G) CONFIGURATION

(See 1.2.3)

The SADIS 2G system comprises of a one-way Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) and a processing/
display unit. The VSAT is simple and consists of a 1.8 or 2.4 m diameter receiving antenna, a low noise
block (LNB), a demodulator and a VADOS Systems VadEDGE router or NetSys SADIS Transcoder. The
processing/display unit can be linked to the output port of the VSAT. Running SADIS 2G software, the
processing/display unit is designed to meet the individual users requirements and/or communication system.
Optional coaxial lightning arrestors can be placed at either end of the coaxial cable between receiving dish
and demodulator.

Management of end-user systems encompasses the ability to remotely enable and disable data recovery at
the remote station. Since every VadEDGE router and NST board is pre-configured with a unique
identification code (MAC address or board ID) it can be addressed and controlled by management
commands broadcast to it as part of the normal SADIS transmission.

VADOS Systems VadEDGE router

The VadEDGE 4200 series router replaced the MegaPAC 2003 in July 2006, and forms part of a SADIS 2G
package. VADOS Systems, suppliers of these technologies, will continue to support customers with the
MegaPAC range. The VadEDGE-series routers provide additional benefits over the MegaPAC 2003 range,
including: dual 10/100 Ethernet ports; 32-bit processor with 8 mb RAM; dual flash based operating system
(no EPROMS); environmental monitoring, auto link-backup, speed and cable detection on WAN ports; and
high mean time between failure (MTBF).
C-2 Sadis User Guide

The SADIS 2G service is designed to deliver the data to the end user in either:

1. the “open” industry standard X.25 format;

2. the Internet Protocol (IP) multicast on UDP format; orthe IP TCP WMO sockets format.

This allows the user the freedom to process data in whatever manner is convenient.

To change configurations between X.25, UDP or TCP, it is necessary to run a “configurator” script supplied
by VADOS Systems. The configurator script runs on a Windows XP system connected to the MegaPAC
(or VadEDGE) router control port via the PC COM port.

In December 2008, the SADIS Provider State completed an evaluation of a VadEDGE 4100 series router.
The 4100-series router is an IP-only solution from VADOS – thus supporting TCP/IP or UDP-multicast
outputs, but not the legacy X.25. The 4100-series offers customers a lower cost solution to the 4200-series.

The above diagram shows a simplified connection topologies required for the different configurations.
Appendix C C-3

X.25 configurations use the port labelled WAN2 to connect to the workstation. A transition cable is
required to provide a 15-way D-type socket for connection to the X25 terminal. The TCP and UDP
configurations require the MegaPAC 2003 (or VadEGDE 4200 series) router to be connected to a LAN,
either via the 10bT or AUI via an external transceiver.

Note: ─ In all cases, the demodulator MUST be connected to WAN1.

The figures below provide a rear view of the MegaPAC 2003 and VadEDGE 4200 series routers, showing
optional expanders.

MegaPAC 2003:

VadEDGE 4200:

Further information on the VadEDGE 4100- and 4200-series routers can be obtained direct from
the supplier, VADOS Systems Ltd – see Appendix L for contact details.

NetSys SADIS Transcoder

In December 2008, the SADIS Provider State completed an evaluation of an alternative SADIS 2G
hardware unit. The NetSys SADIS Transcoder (NST) is simply a printed circuit-board (PCB)
pre-installed within a standard Linux desktop PC. NetSys International (Pty) Ltd, an approved
SADIS workstation provider, offers the NST only as part of a NetSys SADIS 2G upgrade package
comprised of LNB, satellite modem, lightning protection kit, NetSys workstation, printer UPS and
the necessary visualisation software and services to provide pre-flight MET briefings. The NST is
a custom-made solution focussed on the needs of States included in the United Nations list of
Least Developed Countries.
C-4 SADIS User Guide

The NST is implemented on the Quaint E1WIZ4H PCB that offers one channel RS422 (receive
only) as input and bidirectional RS233 and an IEEE 802.3 (Ethernet) ports for output.
Programmed with the firmware in support of SADIS the board has the ability to extract 64 Kbit/sec
serial data, decode the HDLC layer and transport the recovered data via LAN or serial port (or
both). A Quaint developed MS Windows utility is used to configure and set-up the E1WIZ4H card
via the serial port. A proprietary serial data cable in various lengths is provided to connect to the
modem.
Appendix C C-5

The firmware on the NST is responsible for clock recovery and byte alignment of the serial bit
stream as output by the satellite modem. The reconstructed frames are inspected to detect and
process management strings. The configuration in flash memory is updated when a management
command addressed to the board is detected.

Management strings are always forwarded, even when board output is disabled (result of a “DIS”
command). The frames presented for onward transmission are encapsulated in UDP packets
addressed to the IP address and port number configured in flash memory.

The driver software in the workstation receives the UDP packets and assembles the data content
into SADIS messages per Logical Channel (GRIB, OPMET, T4 and Management). The
reconstructed messages are then presented to the data manager for processing and storage into the
workstation database.

Further information on the NetSys SADIS Transcoder can be obtain direct from the supplier,
NetSys International Pty – see Appendix L for contact details.
C-6 SADIS User Guide

OVERVIEW OF SADIS 2G PROTOCOLS USED

X.25 Protocol

X.25 is presented on WAN 2. Connect the transition cable into WAN2 to provide a standard X.21 15-way
DCE socket.

This interface is functionally equivalent to the interface X.21 interface provided on the earlier SADIS 1G
systems.

Notably, the 2003 WAN2 interface will be:

Physical DCE, providing clocks,

Address DCE
Packet size 256
T.1 timer 0.5 seconds
Level 2 window 7
Level 3 window 7

PVC 1 – GRIB
PVC 2 – OPMET
PVC 3 – T4 (BUFR data and PNG charts)

TCP Internet Protocol

Using TCP, a session is created between the MegaPAC 2003 (or VadEDGE 4200) router and the
workstation for each of the three different data types. By default the port numbers used are :

10001 for GRIB, 10002 for OPMET and 10003 for T4 (i.e. BUFR data and PNG charts). These are
configurable via the Configurator script. It is possible to configure a backup workstation (server) using the
Configurator script. This workstation will be used if the primary workstation is not contactable.

UDP Internet Protocol

Using UDP, all data streams can be multicast to many workstations or sent to a single workstation. The data
streams all share the same UDP port number, and can be distinguished at the workstation be a 5 byte header.
The first Data byte is a HEX counter which starts at 00 then increments up to FF then back to 00. The next
three bytes are for internal use (they might not always be zero entries); 00 00 00. The next two bytes are the
frame relay header, from this the user can work out the DLCI Number;
 Appendix C C-7

Convert the bytes from Hex into Binary

aaaaaann
1C = 00011100
bbbbnnnn
51 = 01010001

If the user then takes the a & b section and puts them together like this;

aaaaaabbbb
0001110101

If the user converts the binary number into decimal the DLCI number will be obtained. In this
example it is DLCI number 117.

————————
Appendix D D-1
1

APPENDIX D

SADIS OPERATIONS GROUP - COMPOSITION AND TERMS OF REFERENCE

(see 1.3.1)

1. Composition

China, Côte d'Ivoire, Egypt, Germany, India, Kenya, Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, South
Africa, Switzerland, Ukraine, United Kingdom, United States, Agency for the Security of Aerial
Navigation in Africa and Madagascar (ASECNA), International Air Transport Association (IATA)
and World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

2. Terms of Reference

The SADIS Operations Group should keep under review the SADIS operations to ensure that the
system meets agreed requirements. It should also make recommendations to ICAO for the further
development of the SADIS. In its work the group should take into account the financial
implications of its technical and operational decisions and conclusions. The group should:

2.1 Coordinate with States in the area served by the system on the following:

a) identification of user States' requirements;

b) content and schedule of broadcasts with the WAFC provider State based on user States'
requirements identified under a) above; and

c) necessary remedial action to overcome identified deficiencies.

2.2 Organize the flow of message traffic to:

a) define and establish OPMET collection exchange/dissemination programmes in close

co-ordination with the MET and CNS/MET Sub-groups concerned in the AFI, ASIA, EUR
and MID Regions;

b) review channelling and routing schemes; and

c) establish transmission priorities.

2.3 Ensure SADIS adherence to relevant ICAO and WMO standards, recommended practices and
procedures.

2.4 Organize the monitoring of the service to ensure the service meets user requirements.

2.5 Monitor and review, as necessary, back-up procedures.

D-2 SADISUser Guide

2.6 Liaise effectively with operational, and when required financial, experts in user States; other ICAO
management groups; SCRAG; VAACs; TCACs; and the two WAFCs to develop recommendations,
as necessary, for consideration by ICAO to ensure that the SADIS evolves to meet existing and
future aeronautical requirements in harmony with developments towards implementation of the
final phase of the WAFS.

2.7 Co-ordinate the operational aspects of the joint ICAO/WMO use of the system as regards ICAO
aeronautical requirements.

2.8 Study the use of SADIS for the collection and distribution of AIS information in co-operation with
the EUR AFS Group and the EUROCONTROL EATMP AIS Team, APANPIRG AFS
Management Task Force and ATS/AIS/SAR Sub-group, and MIDANPIRG AIS/ATM Sub-group.

2.9 Report regularly to the EANPG, APIRG, MIDANPIRG and APANPIRG regarding the status of
SADIS and on the activities of the SADIS Operations Group (SADISOPSG).

————————
Appendix E E-1

APPENDIX E

GUIDELINES FOR AUTHORIZED ACCESS TO THE WORLD AREA

FORECAST SYSTEM (WAFS) SATELLITE BROADCAST
(see 1.4.2)

Note — Noted by the ICAO Council on 5 July 1995 (145/24)

1. General

1.1 The satellite broadcast constitutes a sub-system of the ICAO aeronautical fixed service
(AFS) providing an international point-to-multipoint telecommunication service via satellite for the
dissemination of aeronautical information to ICAO Contracting States.

1.2 The aeronautical information disseminated by the satellite broadcast includes primarily
operational meteorological (OPMET) information consisting of the WAFS upper wind and temperature and
significant weather forecasts in binary and facsimile formats, and alphanumeric messages.

1.3 Through the use of the satellite broadcast, Contracting States may wish to meet their
obligation under Article 28 of the Convention on International Civil Aviation regarding the supply to users
of meteorological information for the provision of meteorological service for international air navigation.

1.4 Recovery by Contracting States of associated costs through charges on international civil
aviation should be based on the principles contained in Article 15 of the Convention and the Statements by
the Council to Contracting States on Charges for Airports and Air Navigation Services (Doc 9082).

2. Authorized access to the satellite broadcast

2.1 It is the prerogative of each Contracting State to determine the distribution of the OPMET
information to users, in the State concerned, as well as means, links and information flow to be used for this
purpose. In view of this, it is for each Contracting State to determine the users in the State concerned to be
provided with the authorized access to the satellite broadcast.

2.2 Where the meteorological service for international air navigation is provided by or through
arrangements made by the Meteorological Authority in compliance with the standard contained in 2.1.4 of
Annex 3 - Meteorological Service for International Air Navigation to the Convention on International Civil
Aviation, the Meteorological Authorities, World Area Forecast Centres, Regional Area Forecast Centres
and aerodrome and other meteorological offices should fully enjoy the benefits of the satellite broadcast to
receive the OPMET information broadcast. Furthermore, it is at the discretion of each Contracting State to
determine, on advice from its Meteorological Authority, whether any of the following users will be
provided with authorized access to the satellite broadcast: operators; air traffic services units; search and
rescue services units; aeronautical information services units; volcanic ash and tropical cyclone advisory
centres; and other aeronautical users.

2.3 Each Contracting State will notify ICAO and, for the purpose of efficiency, also the
provider State for the satellite broadcast concerned, regarding the users in that State it has authorized to
access the satellite broadcast.
E-2 SADIS User Guide

Note.— Where the satellite broadcast also comprises a sub-system of the World Meteorological
Organization Global Telecommunication System (WMO GTS), in accordance with the action by Council on
Recommendation 4.2/5 - Relationship of satellite communication system to the WMO's GTS, of the
Communications/Meteorology Divisional Meeting (1982), the WMO Member State concerned determines
the users authorized to receive basic synoptic data and analyses via the satellite broadcast and notifies
ICAO through WMO, accordingly.

————————
Appendix F F-1

APPENDIX F

AGREEMENT
on the Sharing of Costs of
the Satellite Distribution System for
Information relating to Air Navigation
(See 1.5.1)

(Approved by the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization on 24 November 2000,
amended as necessary by SCRAG)
F-2 SADIS User Guide

AGREEMENT
on the Sharing of Costs of
the Satellite Distribution System for
Information relating to Air Navigation

WHEREAS the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization on 6 March 2000 decided that
effective 1 January 2001 all States receiving the service provided by the Satellite distribution system
for information relating to air navigation (SADIS) shall participate in the SADIS Cost Allocation
and Recovery (SCAR) arrangement, hereinafter referred to as the SCAR arrangement, thereby
rendering null and void the Agreement on the Voluntary Sharing of Costs of the Satellite
Distribution System for Information relating to Air Navigation as of that date;

The undersigned Civil Aviation Administrations or other such entities as may be designated by States,
hereinafter referred to as the Parties,
HAVE AGREED AS FOLLOWS:

Article I

Definitions

For the purpose of this Agreement:

Council means the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization

Group means SCRAG
Organization means the International Civil Aviation Organization
SADIS means the Satellite distribution system for information relating to air navigation
SCAR arrangement means the SADIS Cost Allocation and Recovery (SCAR) arrangement
SCRAG means the SADIS Cost Recovery Administrative Group
Secretary General means the Secretary General of the International Civil Aviation Organization or the
officer(s) designated by that person to act on his/her behalf with regard to this Agreement.

Article II

Objective

The objective of this Agreement is for the Parties to establish and administer a mechanism to share in an
equitable and fair manner the costs of providing, operating and maintaining the SADIS as approved by the
Council, the services of which are described in Annex I to this Agreement.
Appendix F F-3

Article III

Obligations of the Parties

1. The United Kingdom, as the provider State, shall provide, operate and maintain the SADIS and do so
in conformity with all relevant ICAO standards and recommended practices and in accordance with
relevant recommendations and decisions approved by the ICAO Council or other authorized ICAO
body.

2. Each Party receiving the SADIS service, including the United Kingdom, but excluding the Parties
referred to under Article IV, shall pay its share of the costs of providing, operating and maintaining the
SADIS as attributable to it in accordance with Article XI.

Article IV

Exemptions

Any Party receiving the SADIS service and which falls within the group of States defined by the
United Nations as “least developed countries (LDCs)” shall, unless it chooses not to, be exempt from paying
its share of the respective costs as far as it remains in that situation.

Article V

Facilities and personnel required

The facilities and personnel required by the United Kingdom fully or in part for the purpose of providing,
operating and maintaining the SADIS are listed in Annex II to this Agreement.

Article VI

Liability

None of the Parties shall be liable for any damages or losses, physical or financial, inflicted as the
consequence of failures and/or omissions in the provision, operation and maintenance of the SADIS.

Article VII

Administration

1. The SCAR arrangement shall be administered by a group, the SADIS Cost Recovery Administrative
Group (SCRAG), which shall:

a) assess the annual cost-share attributable to each Party, including reassessments arising from new
Parties adhering to this Agreement; and
F-4 SADIS User Guide

b) audit the costs of the SADIS provision and any related financial activities, incurred by the provider
State and subject to cost sharing.

2. The SCRAG shall be composed of one Party from the European Region nominated by the European
Air Navigation Planning Group (EANPG), one Party from the AFI Region nominated by the AFI
Planning and Implementation Regional Group (APIRG), one Party from the MID Region nominated by
the MID Air Navigation Planning and Implementation Regional Group (MIDANPIRG) and one Party
from the Asia Region nominated by the ASIA/PAC Air Navigation Planning and Implementation
Regional Group (APANPIRG). An additional member shall be nominated by the planning and
implementation regional group for the region wherein Parties are located which in the aggregate are
responsible for more than 50 per cent of the total current assessments. The representative from the Party
so nominated shall be chairman of the SCRAG. If none of the regions includes Parties which in the
aggregate are responsible for more than 50 per cent of the total current assessments, SCRAG shall elect
its chairman from among its members.

3. Only those Parties which participate in the SCAR arrangement are eligible to serve on the SCRAG.

4. The United Kingdom, in its capacity as the SADIS provider State, shall participate in the SCRAG as an
observer. Furthermore, the International Air Transport Association (IATA), as a representative of user
interests, shall be invited to participate as an observer. The Chairman of the SADIS Operations Group
(SADISOPSG) shall be invited to participate as an observer as needed to provide information on the
technical efficacy of the SADIS services provided and on the inventory of the facilities and services
falling under the SCAR arrangement.

5. Each member Party of the SCRAG shall have one vote, and when voting is required, decisions by the
Group shall be arrived at by simple majority; however, when the votes are equally divided, the
Chairman’s vote shall prevail.

Article VIII

Support services provided by the Secretary General

Support services for the SCRAG specifically attributable to administering the SCAR arrangement shall be
performed by the Secretary General, the costs of which shall be included in the costs to be shared amongst
the Parties participating in the arrangement.

Article IX

Determination of costs

1. The costs to be shared among the Parties shall be the full costs to the United Kingdom of employing
fully or in part the facilities and personnel listed in Annex II to this Agreement for the purpose of
providing, operating and maintaining the SADIS, including depreciation of assets and cost of capital
and an appropriate amount for administration.

2. The United Kingdom shall furnish the SCRAG through the Secretary General, on or before
15 September of each year, estimates, expressed in pounds sterling or any successor currency that may
become legal tender in the United Kingdom, of the costs of the SADIS for the following calendar year
Appendix F F-5

for approval by the Group. The estimates shall be drawn up in accordance with Annex III to this
Agreement.

3. The United Kingdom shall furnish to the SCRAG on or before 30 June of each year, a statement of the
actual costs of the SADIS, expressed in pounds sterling or any successor currency that may become
legal tender in the United Kingdom, for the previous calendar year.

4. Pursuant to Article VII, paragraph 1 b), the SCRAG shall subject such statements of actual costs of the
SADIS to such audit and other examination as the Group deems appropriate and shall furnish to the
Parties a report of the audit or examination.

Article X

Limitations on cost increases

Increases in the costs to the United Kingdom of operating the SADIS in any one year over and above the
rate of inflation in the United Kingdom as measured by the Retail Price Index (RPI) shall not be recoverable
under this Agreement unless agreed upon in writing by Parties responsible for not less than ninety per cent
of the assessments. These limitations do not apply if the increases over and above the rate of inflation are
solely attributable to the approved costs of new services added in that year to the services provided under
the SADIS.

Article XI

Determination of cost share of each Party

1. Each Party as encompassed by Article III, paragraph 2, shall be assessed a share of the total costs of the
SADIS arrangement in proportion to the total number of available tonne-kilometres (ATKs) in
scheduled services (international and domestic) performed by air carriers based in the territory of the
State of that Party. The share of each Party shall be calculated from the total number of ATKs
performed by all air carriers based in the territory of the State of that Party as a percentage of the total
number of such ATKs performed by all air carriers of all the Parties participating in the arrangement.
The total costs to be shared shall include the costs attributable to the Parties exempted from paying.

2. On or before 1 November of each year, the Secretary General shall with regard to each Party furnish the
SCRAG with the total number of ATKs performed in scheduled services (international and domestic)
in the preceding calendar year by air carriers based in the territory of the State of that Party.

3. The assessments for year n shall be calculated on the basis of the cost estimates for that year as approved
by the SCRAG and ATKs as provided with regard to each Party by the Secretary General for year n-2.
The cost basis for the assessments in year n shall, however, first be adjusted upwards or downwards as
the case may be by the amount by which the total estimated costs for year n-2 were below or above the
approved actual costs for that year. Likewise the assessment of each Party shall be adjusted to take into
account any difference between the amounts paid by it under this Agreement as advances for year n-2
and its share as determined on the basis of actual ATKs and approved actual costs in year n-2.

4. Any under-recovery of costs for year n arising from the failure of a Party to pay the SADIS cost share
attributable to it for that year shall be added to the total SADIS costs to be shared for year n+2. Any
F-6 SADIS User Guide

subsequent remittance by the Party concerned to offset the consequential debt shall be deducted from
the total costs to be shared for the year following that in which the remittance was received.

5. Pursuant to Article VIII and Annex III to this Agreement, the costs of the support services provided by
the Secretary General shall be added to the costs to be shared.

Article XII

Collection by SADIS provider

1. The SCRAG shall communicate to the United Kingdom as the SADIS provider State on or before
1 December each year the approved estimated assessments for each Party adjusted as provided for in
Article XI and authorize their collection by the United Kingdom, which thereupon may proceed to issue
the invoices to each Party for its respective assessment as adjusted.

2. The invoices and payments made shall be in pounds sterling or any successor currency that may become
legal tender in the United Kingdom.

3. On 1 January each calendar year or within one month of the date of invoice, each Party, or the entity or
agent it designates, shall pay to the United Kingdom the amount assessed on it as provided for in
paragraph 1 of this Article.

4. The payments that are due to the Secretary General pursuant to Article VIII above shall be remitted by
the United Kingdom as the SADIS provider State to the Secretary General on 1 May each year.

5. The United Kingdom shall maintain a separate bank account specifically for handling all payments
received and payments made with regard to the services covered under this Agreement. Any interest
accruing on that account shall be considered a collective property of the Parties and shall be applied for
a purpose deemed appropriate by the SCRAG, with the approval of the Parties.

6. The United Kingdom shall keep proper accounts of the billings and collections under this Agreement.

Article XIII

Failure to pay

Failure by a Party receiving the SADIS service to pay its share of the costs of providing the service (other
than a Party exempted in accordance with Article IV) shall lead to the service to that Party being withdrawn
at the end of the calendar year in which payment was due. The service shall not be re-instated until the Party
concerned has fully settled its debt.
Appendix F F-7

Article XIV

Recovery of costs from users

It is the prerogative of each Party to decide whether or not to recover the assessment it has paid under this
Agreement from users (aircraft operators). Such cost recovery by a Party shall, however, in so far as it
applies to international civil aviation, be in conformity with the principles and practices set out in the
Convention on International Civil Aviation (Doc 7300) and ICAO’s Policies on Charges for Airports and
Air Navigation Services (Doc 9082).

Article XV

Reporting to Parties

On or before 30 September each year or more frequently if required, the SCRAG shall submit a report to the
Parties on its activities in the preceding year and other relevant issues.

Article XVI

Settlement of disputes

Any dispute relating to the interpretation or application of this Agreement which is not settled by
negotiation between the Parties involved shall, upon request of any of these Parties, be referred to the
Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization for its recommendation.

Article XVII

Amendments

1. Any proposal for an amendment of this Agreement may be initiated by a Party, directly or through the
planning and implementation regional group for the air navigation region within which the Party is
located, or by the Council. The proposal shall be communicated in writing to the Secretary General who
shall circulate it to all the Parties with the request that they advise the Secretary General formally
whether or not they agree to it.

2. Adoption of an amendment shall require the agreement of two-thirds of all the Parties that have paid
their share of the costs of providing the SADIS service.

3. An amendment so adopted shall enter into force for all Parties on 1 January of the year following the
year in which formal written acceptances of the amendment have been received by the Secretary
General from two-thirds of all the Parties that have paid their share of the costs of providing the SADIS
service.

4. The Secretary General shall send certified copies of each amendment as adopted to all the Parties and
shall notify them of any acceptances and of the date of entry into force of any amendment.

5. The SCRAG may amend the Annexes to this Agreement, subject always to the terms and conditions of
the Agreement and the consent of the United Kingdom as the SADIS provider.
F-8 SADIS User Guide

Article XVIII

Accessions and withdrawals

1. This Agreement shall be open to accession by the civil aviation administration or other such designated
entity of any State being served by the SADIS. Accession shall be effected by notice in writing to that
effect given to the Secretary General by the head of the civil aviation administration or other such
designated entity in the State concerned.

2. Any Party may withdraw from participation in this Agreement on 31 December in any year by notice in
writing to that effect given to the Secretary General not later than 1 January of that year by the Party
concerned.

Article XIX

Termination

1. a) This Agreement may be terminated by the United Kingdom as the SADIS provider State on
31 December in any year by notice in writing given to the Secretary General not later than
1 January of that year.

b) If at any time it proves impossible for the United Kingdom to perform the services within the limit
determined pursuant to the provisions of Article X, the United Kingdom shall immediately notify
the Secretary General in writing of such fact and shall furnish to the SCRAG through the Secretary
General a detailed estimate of the additional amount required. The SCRAG shall promptly
examine such estimate and, after any necessary consultation with the United Kingdom, determine
the amount needed in excess of the aforesaid limit. The SCRAG shall then approach the Parties
with a view to obtaining their consent as required pursuant to the provisions of Article X. Unless,
within three months after the SCRAG has determined the additional amount required, the Group
notifies the United Kingdom that the Parties have given their consent, the United Kingdom may
thereafter terminate this Agreement on three months’ notice in writing given to the Secretary
General.

c) This Agreement may be terminated on 31 December in any year by Parties other than the Civil
Aviation Authority of the United Kingdom responsible for assessments in the aggregate of not less
than two-thirds of the limit determined pursuant to the provisions of Article X by notice in writing
given to the Secretary General not later than 1 January of that year.

2. Upon receipt of a notice or notices of desire to terminate this Agreement in accordance with
paragraph 1 of this Article, the Secretary General shall notify the Parties.

Article XX

Entry into force

This Agreement, and its Annexes which form an integral part thereof, shall enter into force on
1 January 2001.
Appendix F F-9

ANNEX I

SADIS SERVICES

Note.— A glossary of abbreviations as used in this Annex is provided at the end of the Annex.

1. Broadcast service

a) distribution of WAFS upper wind/temperature forecasts in GRIB code (including scheduled repeat
of whole data set);

b) distribution of WAFS upper wind/temperature forecasts in T4 facsimile chart form;

c) distribution of WAFS SIGWX forecasts in T4 facsimile chart form;

d) distribution of WAFS SIGWX forecasts in numerical code form as determined by ICAO;

e) distribution of OPMET information in alphanumeric format (METARs, TAFs, SIGMET, special

AIREPs, volcanic ash and tropical cyclone advisories) from those regions whose OPMET
information is needed to satisfy approved requirements in the regions served by SADIS;

f) distribution of amendments to the foregoing, as necessary, and responses to requests for repeat of
data as determined by the SADISOPSG.

2. Collection service

a) collection of relevant OPMET information by the SADIS Gateway, including the Two-Way
facility, from States in accordance with approved requirements stated by PIRGs and actioned by
SADISOPSG;

b) monitoring and validation of data received at the SADIS Gateway, including the Two-Way, to the
required standards, for the provision of real-time scheduled reports and for off-line quality control
analysis.

3. Back-up service

Reception of US ISCS broadcasts for back-up purposes.

4. User support service

a) 24-hour help line/faults desk;

b) dissemination of amendments to the SADIS User Guide via the SADIS broadcast (and by
customary hard copy).
F-10 SADIS User Guide

Glossary of abbreviations

AIREP Air report

GRIB Gridded binary (code)

ISCS International Satellite Communication System (U.S. satellite broadcasts

similar to SADIS covering North and South America, the Caribbean and
Central America, the Pacific and Eastern Asia)

METAR Aerodrome routine meteorological report in code form

OPMET Operational meteorological (information or data)

PIRG ICAO planning and implementation regional group

SADIS Gateway The United Kingdom message-handling system which receives data from the
Aeronautical Fixed Service for transmission on SADIS

SIGMET Information of specified en-route weather phenomena which may affect the
safety of aircraft operations

SIGWX Significant weather

T4 Coded digital facsimile transmission format

TAF Aerodrome forecast in code form

WAFS World area forecast system

Appendix F F-11

ANNEX II

SADIS INVENTORY

Note. — The SADIS Inventory is updated yearly by the SADISOPSG and an up-to-date
version is attached to the most recent SADISOPSG report available on the SADISOPSG website at URL:
http://www.icao.int/anb/sadisopsg .
F-12 SADIS User Guide

ANNEX III

FINANCIAL ISSUES

GENERAL

1. Determination of any costs to be recovered under the SCAR arrangement must be carried out in
conformity with the ICAO policies and principles stated in the Convention on International Civil
Aviation (Doc 7300) and its Annexes, and ICAO’s Policies on Charges for Airports and Air
Navigation Services (Doc 9082).

2. Where facilities or personnel are only used partially to provide SADIS, the cost share attributable
to SADIS shall be correspondingly reduced.

CHARGEABLE COSTS

1. The costs which the United Kingdom as the SADIS provider State may charge under this
Agreement are set out hereunder:

a) Cost of operation and maintenance

These refer to personnel costs (including direct remuneration, pension contributions, social
security costs, etc.), power, supplies, services contracted or procured and other costs of
operation and maintenance.

b) Administrative costs

Costs incurred in administering SADIS, including invoicing and collection of payments,

and in preparation of reports to the SCRAG.

c) Depreciation shall not exceed:

Building space: 5 per cent a year.

Furniture and fittings: 10 per cent a year.
Communication equipment: 20 per cent a year.

Notes: 1) The residual value of a fixed asset disposed of shall be charged to depreciation in the year
the disposal takes place. Also, the proceeds from a disposal, if any, shall be deducted from
the total estimated costs to be shared amongst the Parties as calculated in the year when
the disposal took place, unless this occurs after the calculation of the assessments in which
case the proceeds shall be applied against the assessments in the following year.

2) In the event this Agreement is terminated, the United Kingdom may, to the extent it is
unable to reallocate any fixed asset(s) to other use, charge the undepreciated portion of
the asset(s) concerned to the costs recoverable from the participating States in the last
year the Agreement remains in force.
Appendix F F-13

d) Cost of capital

This falls into two basic categories. The first is the interest on debt capital (other than equity). The
second is the appropriate cost of capital applied to equity. The latter would be defined as fixed and
net current assets minus long-term debt. The rate to be applied either would be set by an
independent economic regulator appointed by the United Kingdom Government or should be
derived from the average government bond rate in the United Kingdom for the preceding year.

e) Interest on temporary cash surplus or deficit

Article XII, paragraph 5 of the Agreement stipulates that “the United Kingdom shall maintain a
separate bank account specifically for handling all payments received and payments made with
regard to the services covered under this Agreement. Any interest accruing on that account shall be
considered a collective property of the Parties and shall be applied for a purpose deemed
appropriate by the SCRAG, with the approval of the Parties.” In the events of the funds in this bank
account not being sufficient to cover the disbursements required for the services covered under this
Agreement, the United Kingdom may charge interest on the shortfall during the period it lasts at
that rate of interest that would be paid by the United Kingdom for short-term loans it may negotiate
to finance its own operations.

PRESENTATION OF ACCOUNTS

1. The format and detail of the presentation of the accounts by the United Kingdom as the SADIS provider
State shall be determined by the SCRAG.

2. An inventory of assets should also be maintained showing for each major asset or group of assets:
original value, depreciation charged in the current year, total accumulated depreciation, and net
depreciated value at the end of the year.

COSTS OF SUPPORT SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE SECRETARY GENERAL

Estimates of the total costs of the support services provided by the Secretary General for year n shall be
provided by the Secretary General for inclusion in the estimated assessments of the costs of the SADIS for
that year. The actual costs of the support services provided by the Secretary General in year n shall be
presented after their audit by the Organization’s external auditor.

————————
Appendix G G-1

APPENDIX G

MAXIMUM AREAS OF COVERAGE

(see 2.1.3)
G-2 SADIS User Guide
Appendix G G-3

————————
Appendix H H-1

APPENDIX H

OPMET MESSAGE FORMATS

(See 2.5.2)

AFTN message format

(ITA-2 C teletypewriter)

Part of message Example

Transmission and service information ZCZC NRA062 270930

Priority indicator and addresses GG DIAPYMYX GOOYMYX
Filing time and originator 270928 DGAAYMYX
Text DGAA 270915Z 271212 13010KT
9000 SCT020 TEMPO 1524 3000 DZ
OVC003=
(seven line feeds)
End of message NNNN

WMO abbreviated heading

TTAAii CCCC YYGGgg (BBB) where:

TT = data designator, e.g. SA for METAR, FC and FT for TAF and WS for SIGMET1;
AA = geographical designator, e.g. GH for Ghana, HU=Hungary1;
ii = number used to differentiate bulletins with the same types of data from the same geographical
area;
CCCC = International four-letter location indicator for station originating or compiling the bulletin
(ICAO Doc 7910 - Location Indicators);
YY = the day of the month;
GGgg = time in hours and minutes for the time of observation in the case of METARs, and in the case
of TAFs the full hour preceding the transmission time; and
BBB = optional group to indicate whether the message is an amendment, a correction or a delayed
message (WMO Manual on GTS).

1
See WMO Manual on GTS (WMO ─ No. 386) for lists of designators.
H-2 SADIS User Guide

EXAMPLES2

1. WMO abbreviated heading

FTEA31 HKNA 080400 CCA

FT TAF with validity more than 12 hours

EA East Africa
31 TAF Bulletin No. 31
HKNA message originated by Nairobi
08 transmitted on the 8th day of the month;
0400 full hour preceding the transmission was 0400 UTC; and
CCA first correction of this TAF.

2. TAF Message sent to a TCC

ZCZC
GG DIAPYMYX
270930 DGAAYMYX
FTGH31 DGAA 270900
DGAA 270915Z 271212 13010KT 9000 SCT020 TEMPO 1524 3000 DZ OVC003=

(seven line feeds)

NNNN

3. Message stripped of the AFTN envelope for the SADIS broadcast

FTGH31 DGAA 270900

DGAA 270915Z 271212 13010KT 9000 SCT020 TEMPO 1524 3000 DZ OVC003=

————————

2
See ICAO Annex 10, Volume II, Chapter 4 for teletypewriter operating procedures.
Appendix I I-1

APPENDIX I

DATA PROCESSING SYSTEMS

(see 4.1.4)

1. Recommended basic requirements for data processing systems

The system should:

a) interface with IP protocols (UDP multicast recommended, WMO TCP sockets

can be supported) and (if specifically required by the user) X.25 from the
VSAT receiving unit at data speeds up to 64 kbps;

b) have ample capacity to receive the data required by the user (PNG charts,
BUFR and GRIB coded data, alphanumeric information);

c) have sufficient speed to display and process data in near real time;

d) NOT be capable of displaying or printing time expired data or charts;

e) be user friendly for documentation in an ATC/FBU environment;

f) be PASSWORD protected for ATC/FBU;

g) ensure that products are displayed in ICAO Annex 3 compliant formats; and

h) ensure that if any modifications to the meteorological content of transmitted

information takes place it is with the clear understanding that the product ceases
to be a WAFS product, and this is automatically reflected in any associated
chart legends.

2. Specific requirements for digital grid point (GRIB) data and digitally coded SIGWX data

The system should:

a) display wind and temperature information generated from the GRIB data, and
SIGWX information from the BUFR data on a map background in the
appropriate ICAO Annex 3 format;

b) select the map area for a selected route;

c) be able to zoom in on a selected area;

d) display all the grid point data along a route;

e) print the screen display;

I-2 SADIS User Guide

f) display valid data with the correct date and time group at all times;

g) ensure that the standard ICAO areas are available on the system as map area
defaults;

h) be able to produce wind and temperature charts from GRIB data, and SIGWX
charts from BUFR data that are largely identical to the equivalent portable
network graphics (PNG) chart-format products;

i) be able to produce charts that span the international date line, and cover all of
the standard ICAO areas; and

j) have the capability to automatically generate ICAO Annex 3 compliant charts

from the GRIB and BUFR code forms.

3. Specific requirements for digitally coded charts

The system should:

a) display WAFS SIGWX in portable network graphics (PNG) chart format;

b) display charts with the correct orientation and map projection;

c) be able to zoom into part of a chart if required with a valid date and time
displayed at all times; and

d) print whole charts on A4 paper.

4. Specific requirements for OPMET information in alphanumeric format

The system should:

a) display all OPMET information in alphanumeric format (METAR - SA, TAF

- FC, FT and SIGMET - WS, WV, WC and special AIREP – UA, tropical
cyclone and volcanic ash advisories — FK, FV, and GAMET - FA and
AIRMET - WA).

b) display only valid OPMET information by FIR, bulletin, country or route;

c) include an option to select all data;

d) be able to build a user's own route list which can be saved for future use;

e) display SIGMET at all times and in particular when linked by requests for TAF
and METAR information by FIR, country or selected route; and

f) print out OPMET information.

Appendix I I-3
5. General information and advice when implementing a data processing system

a) establish how the hardware will be supported in your country;

b) determine hardware reliability and the mean time between failures and what
parts are likely to fail;

c) determine if the supplier holds spares and how many other systems have been
sold in your country;

d) identify the cost of spares and turn-round time in getting new spares;

e) does the hardware carry sufficient extended warranty. Is it worth the extra cost?

f) does the supplier provide a ‘hot-line’ for customer support, what is its
availability, is it in your own language?

g) identify the cost of additional copies of the application software and operating
software;

h) prepare information on the required layout of where the VSAT and the data
processor are to be installed;

i) determine whether or not remote systems are required and the cost of terrestrial
circuits;

j) identify, as much as possible, the volume of data and the type of products that
are required to be processed - through WAFC London - and ensure that your
system will be able to cope and meet future requirements cheaply and
effectively;

k) identify the cost of software upgrades and enhancements that will be required
when the WAFS product suite changes; and

l) review the SADIS hardware and software procurement guidelines available

from the SADIS website at URL:
http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/sadis/news/software_procure_guide.html .

————————
Appendix J J-1

APPENDIX J

INTELSAT 904 — SATELLITE FINDER DIAGRAM

Azimuth

Elevation
J-2 Sadis User Guide

Determine the azimuth and elevation of the satellite from the terminals intended installation location

The satellite used for the transmission of SADIS data is INTELSAT 604, located at 60°E longitude. Use this
satellite finder to determine the azimuth and elevation of the satellite from the desired installation location.
For example, the azimuth bearing from London is between 110° and 120°, say 117°. The elevation bearing
is between 5° and 10°, say 9°.

Check that the path to the satellite is clear of obstructions

Having determined the azimuth and elevation bearings, use a compass and inclinometer to check that the
path from the desired installation location to the satellite is clear of obstructions.

Note that the azimuth diagram relates to the true rather than the magnetic bearing. It is important to correct
for the true/magnetic variation for your particular location when deriving an azimuth bearing from a
compass reading.

Note also that if the terminal is to be located adjacent to large metal objects or on a steel framed building,
the compass may give a false reading and the azimuth bearing will have to be resolved using an appropriate
large scale map.

The path to the satellite must be clear of obstructions such as buildings, trees, vehicle movements etc,
otherwise reception of SADIS data will be impaired. Check also that there are no planned building works
that could cause an obstruction in the future.

————————
 Appendix K K-1

APPENDIX K

SADIS VSAT RETURNS PROCEDURES

(See 6.7.2)

Editorial Note. ─ Replace the appendix in toto with the following new text:

1. FOR L.TEQ HARDWARE

The following procedure will apply to any SADIS VSAT receiving equipment that has become defective
and needs to be repaired – including items that are still under warranty.

Any item returned without seeking prior authorisation from L.Teq may only be repaired at the discretion of
L.Teq.

1. If a fault occurs in a piece of equipment, the customer should contact L.Teq Customer and
Technical Support (details below) and request an RMA (Return Materials Authorisation) number.
When issuing the RMA number, L-Teq will require as much detail of the fault as possible. Based
on the information received, L.Teq will be able to ascertain whether the faulty unit is still covered
by the manufacturer’s warranty.

2. At this stage an L.Teq engineer will be consulted - as sometimes, equipment can be repaired
remotely as a result of equipment reconfiguration on site. If this is not the case, the customer will
be requested to return the equipment using the RMA number provided.

3. Customers should send the faulty piece of equipment back to L.Teq, freight prepaid in the original
packaging, or ensure units are carefully packed to avoid damage in transit - failure to do so may
void any warranties or cause further damage to the product.

4. It should be noted that L.Teq reserves the right to charge a fee and shipping costs for ‘no fault
found’. The customer should ensure that they enclose a copy of RMA form with the unit being
shipped to the repair centre.

5. If still under warranty L.Teq will repair the equipment and return it to the customer, freight prepaid.

Out-of-Warranty equipment

1. If equipment is found to be out of warranty, L.Teq will evaluate the faulty equipment, send the
customer a quotation for the repair, and request payment in advance. The quoted cost will include
the return freight to the customer. Once payment has been received and the equipment repaired, the
equipment will be returned to the customer.

Note 1 ─ The customer should send the equipment to L.Teq, freight pre-paid and
adequately packed.
K-2 SADIS User Guide

Note 2. ─ Once evaluated by the repair centre, the cost could increase if replacement parts
are needed to complete the repair. The customer would be notified if there is a difference to the original
quote and could decide if they wished to proceed with the repair. If it was decided that the extra cost of the
repair was not practical, L.Teq would return the unrepaired unit, at the customers cost, back to the
requested delivery address. But, the customer would still be liable to pay the minimum charge as in the
original quotes. The customer would pay for the cost of the associated repair and shipment back to country
of installation.

L.Teq Customer and Technical Support L.Teq

Lapwing 440
Telephone: +44 (0)1276 685389 Frimley Business Park
Fax: +44 (0)1276 686218 Frimley
Surrey
Email: service@lteq.com GU16 7SZ
United Kingdom

2. FOR PARADIGM COMMUNICATIONS HARDWARE

The following procedure will apply to any SADIS VSAT receiving equipment that has become defective
and needs to be repaired – including items that are still under warranty.

Any item returned without seeking prior authorisation from Paradigm may only be repaired at the discretion
of Paradigm.

1. If a fault occurs in a piece of equipment, the customer should contact Paradigm Support (details
below) and request an RMA (Return Materials Authorisation) form – a sample pro-forma is
provided on the following page. The RMA form should be completed by the customer in as much
detail as possible and sent back to Paradigm Support. From this, Paradigm can ascertain whether
the faulty unit is still covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.

2. At this stage a Paradigm engineer will be consulted - as sometimes, equipment can be repaired
remotely as a result of equipment reconfiguration on site. If this is not the case, the customer will
be given an RMA number under which to return the equipment.

3. Customers should send the faulty piece of equipment back to Paradigm, freight prepaid in the
original packaging, or ensure units are carefully packed to avoid damage in transit - failure to do so
may void any warranties or cause further damage to the product.

4. It should be noted that Paradigm reserves the right to charge a fee and shipping costs for ‘no fault
found’. The customer should ensure that they enclose a copy of RMA form with the unit being
shipped to the repair centre.

5. If still under warranty Paradigm will repair the equipment and return it to the customer, freight
prepaid.
Appendix K K-3

Out-of-Warranty equipment

1. If equipment is found to be out of warranty, Paradigm will issue a quotation for the minimum
inspection cost.

2. On receipt of a Purchase Order from the customer, an RMA number will be issued under which to
return the equipment. The customer should send the equipment to Paradigm freight pre-paid and
adequately packed.

3. Once evaluated by the repair centre, the cost could increase if replacement parts are needed to
complete the repair. The customer would be notified if there is a difference to the original quote and
could decide if they wished to proceed with the repair. If it was decided that the extra cost of the
repair was not practical, Paradigm would return the unrepaired unit, at the customers cost, back to
the requested delivery address. But, the customer would still be liable to pay the minimum charge
as in the original quotes. The customer would pay for the cost of the associated repair and shipment
back to country of installation.

Paradigm Communications Support Paradigm Communications

Technology House
Telephone: +44 (0)1420 88199 Station Road
Fax: +44 (0)1420 88842 Alton
Hampshire
Email: support@paracomm.co.uk GU34 2PZ
United Kingdom
K-4 SADIS User Guide
Appendix K K-5

Failure Analysis Report

————————
 Appendix L L-1

APPENDIX L

LIST OF SADIS 2G HARDWARE, AND

DATA PROCESSING AND DISPLAY SUPPLIERS

L-Teq Ltd (part of OmniGlobe Networks)

Products provided:

SADIS 2G hardware (antenna, LNB, cabling, receivers and router)

Satellite earth stations
VSAT networks
Flyaway and quick-deploy VSAT terminals
Network management systems

Note.— The 2G compatible receivers can be provided as standalone units, or incorporated into a
single unit along with VadEDGE router.

Services provided:

System design, integration and installation

Link budgets
Project management
Product configuration, support and maintenance
Communication equipment repair
Training

Contact details:

Julie Carver (SADIS 2G Account Manager)

L. Teq Ltd.
Lapwing 440
Frimley Business Park
Frimley
Surrey GU16 7SZ
United Kingdom.
Telephone: +44 (0) 1276 686566
Fax: +44 (0) 1276 686550
E-mail: jcarver@lteq.com
Web: www.lteq.com
L-2 SADIS User Guide

Paradigm Communications

Products provided:

Satellite products
Satellite earth stations
Flyaway and quick-deploy satellite and FWA systems
Wireless solutions
IP solutions
Network management systems

Services provided:

System design
Equipment sales
Programme management
Installation services
Customer services
Logistics
Repair centre
Bonded warehouse
Quick delivery
Application development
Factory and field training

Contact details:

Elmira Thacker (SADIS 2G Account Manager)

Paradigm
Technology House
Station Road
Alton
Hampshire GU34 2PZ.
United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 (0)870 902 4000 or +44 (0)1420 88199
Fax: +44 (0)870 902 4001 or +44 (0)1420 88842
E-mail: sales@paracomm.co.uk or elmira.thacker@paracomm.co.uk
Web: www.paracomm.co.uk

Vados Systems Ltd (part of AEP Networks)

Services provided:

SADIS 2G Migration Solutions

SADIS 2G data streams output over IP
SADIS 2G data streams output over X.25
 Appendix L L-3

VADOS Systems is the manufacturer of the SADIS 2G system components. With many years involvement
with the SADIS project they are seen by the user community as providers of highly reliable equipment with
the knowledge and experience that will ensure these systems fit your requirements.

Sales contact details:

Vados Systems Ltd

Silwood Park,
Buckhurst Road,
Ascot,
Berkshire SL5 7PW.
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)1344 637300 (Please ask for the 'SADIS 2G team')
Fax: +44 (0)1344 637386 (Please mark with: 'For the attention of SADIS 2G team')
E-mail: sadis2g@vados.com
Web: www.vados.com/?pageid=2g

NetSys International (Pty) Ltd

Services provided:

SADIS 2G migration solutions

SADIS 2G datastream output over IP

NetSys is the supplier of the NetSys SADIS Transcoder (NST), an alternative SADIS 2G hardware
system component. The NST is simply a printed circuit-board pre-installed within a standard
Linux desktop PC. NetSys offers the NST only as part of a complete NetSys SADIS 2G package.

Sales contact details:

NetSys International (Pty) Ltd

P.O. Box 82
Persequor Park 0020
South Africa
Tel: + 27 12 349 2056
Fax: + 27 12 349 2757
E-mail: info@netsys.co.za
Web: www.netsys.co.za

In addition to the above hardware suppliers, some users may prefer to purchase their hardware through one
of the established workstation suppliers. This option may be particularly applicable when users choose to
purchase SADIS visualization software at the same time as procuring hardware. The list of workstation
suppliers is provided below.
L-4 SADIS User Guide

SADIS DISPLAY PROCESSING

AND DISPLAY SUPPLIERS

SUPPLIER PRODUCT

Telvent Netherlands BV METAPS

Mr. Jacco Mulders Tel: +31 345 544080

PO Box 422 Fax: +31 345 544099
4100 AK Culemborg E-mail: Jacco.mulders@telvent.abengoa.com
Netherlands Web: www.telvent-almos.com

Corobor MESSIR - AERO

Mr. Michel Bourgues Tel: +33 1 4573 6060

134 rue Julian Grimau Fax: +33 1 4573 2080
94400 Vitry sur Seine E-mail: sales@corobor.com
France Web: www.corobor.com

GST/3SI METLAB

Mr. Paul Heppner Tel: +1 856 596 2226

12000 Lincoln Drive West, Fax: +1 856 596 2274
Suite 203a E-mail: Pheppner@3sinc.com
Marlton Web: www.3sinc.com/Products/WAFS/wafs.html
NJ 08053 www.3sinc.com
USA
or or

Mr. Gene Schaffer Tel: +1 301 474 9696

7855 Walker Drive Fax: +1 301 474 5970
Suite 200 E-mail: eugene.shaffer@gst.com
Greenbelt Web: www.gst.com
Maryland 20770
USA

IBL Software Engineering Aero Weather

Mr. Michal Weis Tel: +4 212 3266 2111

Mierova 103 Fax: +4 212 3266 2110
SK-82105 Bratislava E-mail: aeroweather@iblsoft.com
Slovakia Web: www.iblsoft.com

Info - Electronic Systems Inc ULTIMA

Mr H P S Ahluwalia Tel: +1 514 421 0767 (extension 222)

1755 St Regis Fax: +1 514 421 0769
Suite 100 E-mail: ha@info-electronics.com or
Dollard-de-Ormeaux (Montreal) contact@info-electronics.com
Quebec Web: www.info-electronics.ca
Canada H9B 2M9
 Appendix L L-5

SUPPLIER PRODUCT

Institute of Radar Meteorology (IRAM) MeteoExpert/MeteoConsultant Applications

Dr. Tatiana Bazlova Tel: +1 (81370) 75 171

15, p. Voejkovo, Fax: +1(81370) 75 592
Vsevolozhskij rajon, E-mail: expert@iram.com
Leningradskay oblast, Web: www.iram.spb.ru (Russian language only)
Russia,
188685

MapMaker Group Ltd. GIS Meteo

Mr. Alexey Solomakhov Tel: +7 495 255 2303

B. Predtechensky per. 11, Fax: +1 646 365 3167
Moscow E-mail: alex@gismeteo.com
Russia 123242 Web: mapmak.mecom.ru/egmsadis.html

Meteo France International (MFI) WEDIS

Mr Dominique Paris Tel: +33 5 6143 2940

Park Avenue Fax: +33 5 6143 2941
9 rue Michel Labrousse E-mail: dominique.paris@mfi.fr
31100 Toulouse Web: www.sofreavia.com
France
Netsys nsWAFS/nsGIB

Mr. André van der Walt Tel: + 27 12 349 2056

NetSys International (Pty) Ltd Fax: + 27 12 349 2757
P.O. Box 82 E-mail: andre@netsys.co.za or info@netsys.co.za
Persequor Park 0020 Web: www.netsys.co.za
South Africa

Note.— Further information about the SADIS 2G service can be obtained from the Met Office
website at URL: http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/sadis/sadis2g.html .

— END —