Fluidic pig launcher and method of its use

A method of launching a pipeline pig, the method comprising:

• positioning a pipeline pig in a launch position over a fluid distribution grid located between the pipeline pig and a barrel floor of a first launcher/receiver, the pipeline pig including at least two sealing elements;
• the fluid distribution grid configured as a perforated matrix containing a plurality of ports arranged to form jets that discharge fluid toward an opposing surface area of said sealing elements resting on and blocking ports of the plurality when in the launch position;
• filling a fluid chamber located between the barrel floor and the fluid distribution grid;
• lifting the pipeline pig from the fluid distribution rid when in the launch position by discharging through the plurality of ports at least a portion of a fluid which enters the fluid chamber, the fluid acting on the opposing surface area of said sealing elements;
• and
• launching the pipeline pig, when lifted, in a direction opposite that of a closure door of the first launcher/receiver.