On behalf of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), we have developed and operate the SAtellite DIStribution (SADIS) system. These pages provide general information on the satellite data distribution system (SADIS) and the accompanying services that users can access.

What is SADIS?

SADIS is a high quality, cost-effective and error-free satellite data distribution system that brings vital flight information to aviation users around the world. It provides a point to multi-point service in real-time on a 24-hour basis via satellite.

• Uses an Intelsat 904 satellite located over the Indian Ocean
• Distributes World Area Forecast System (WAFS) products and global OPMET
• Enables WAFC London to distribute data to more than 90 ICAO states
• Has coverage of around 60 per cent of the earth's land surface
• Two similar satellites over the Atlantic and the Pacific Oceans, provide the complementary ISCS service, which covers the rest of the world
• Free internet FTP back-up service
• Highly cost effective

The SADIS uplink is located at the Cable & Wireless Communications hub at Whitehill Earth Station, north of Oxford in the UK.

Learn more about SADIS

The SADIS site survey questionnaire asks the questions needed to help users install a SADIS receive-only terminal, choose a suitable location for the antenna and receiver unit, select the correct type of antenna mounting and consider how the terminal should be installed.

It is essential that this survey is carried out prior to any other preparatory work, to ensure that the installation proceeds in a smooth and safe manner.

Download the questionnaire
(PDF, 108 kb)

Requires Adobe Acrobat Reader 4.0 or later

The SADIS satellite finder provides instructions to help users find the azimuth and elevation of INTELSAT 904, the satellite used for the transmission of SADIS data.

View the satellite finder
(PDF, 165 kb)

Requires Adobe Acrobat Reader 4.0 or later