In order to precisely calculate the maximum transmission range of the ground-based navigation signals of surrounding related airlines in plateau complex terrain, A calculation model was proposed, which takes into account the influence of earth curvature, obstacle shelter, elevation of transmitting and receiving ends and maximum transmission power of electromagnetic wave. The model consists of two parts: the algorithm for determination of obstacle shelter point and the rigorous algorithm for the maximum propagation distance, which can precisely calculate the maximum propagation distance of ground-based navigation signals under the influence of complex terrain in plateau. Basing on programming language VB.NET and computer aided design (CAD), The software for calculation the signal coverage of ground-based navigation facilities was developed. Through the software, combined with the minimum safe altitude, the supportability and blind area distribution of ground-based navigation facilities for the airlines were analyzed, and the blind compensation planning was proposed. The research results provide theoretical and data support for the improvement of civil aviation flight safety capabilities in plateau area.