Weekly Review #271: The meeting of the ATM and academia worlds

Posted December 4 2024 by Kasia Żmudzińska
This week’s newsletter is brought to you by Kasia, Market Intelligence Expert & ATM Consultant here at FoxATM. Vincent will return the week after next to wrap up the year with the final newsletter on the 18th. For now, I’m excited to share some insights into the growing collaboration between the worlds of academia and ATM.  
 
The realm of universities seems to me to be more exposed to the ATM industry and more engaged in industry projects than it used to be. I feel it's a good development. The earlier students get to know the business world, the better for them and their professional development. Moreover, the ANSPs and the industry profit from their fresh view and out-of-the-box ideas. After finishing university, students who had contact with projects, people and environments from "real life", probably have a better idea of how it is to be in a workplace. Let's have a sneak peek into a few recent developments in this topic.  
 
This November in Rome, the SESAR Innovation Days conference hosted the ceremony of SESAR Young Scientist Award. This initiative aimed to recognise early-career researchers who have excelled in ATM and aviation-related fields as well as supporting young researchers by offering them further professional development opportunities. 
 
In March this year, CANSO created a totally new category of membership tailored for academia and research partners. This strategic move intends to support collaboration between ANSPs, academia, and research institutions. By joining CANSO, these institutions can use the platform to engage with industry stakeholders and contribute to impactful research initiatives.
 
I can not forget to mention the Engage 2 initiative bridging academia and industry in the ATM domain. The project was officially kicked off in June last year. Until 2027, the network will organise various activities supporting connections between academia and industry in ATM research and innovation. The focus of the "knowledge transfer network" is feeding the findings from the Digital European Sky research and innovation programme into future fundamental and application-oriented research. 
 
At the end of the day, these and many other great initiatives support the next generation of ATM workforce, which is crucial to managing the air traffic system we envision for the future.
 
Do you know other cases of ATM and universities working together or have an idea on this topic? Do not hesitate to reach out and share! Meanwhile, have a look at the headlines from last week's news. 
 
Kasia

ANSP news

  • Austro Control expands Free Route Airspace- Austro Control is expanding its Free Route Airspace towards the Czech Republik, Slovakia and Hungary.
  • Eurocontrol Data Snapshot 47 on ATFM Slot Tolerance Windows- Eurocontrol has released Data Snapshot 47 focusing on Air Traffic Flow Management (ATFM) Slot Tolerance Windows. This report provides detailed analysis and statistics on the slot tolerance window performance, aiming to optimize slot allocation and improve overall air traffic flow management efficiency.
  • The Number of Flights Managed by Enaire in October was 5.5 per cent higher than in 2023, a Record year- Enaire announces a notable accomplishment with a 5.5% increase in the number of flights managed in October compared to 2023, which was already a record year. This reflects the growing demand for air traffic management services and showcases Enaire's capabilities in handling a high volume of flights efficiently.
  • Beyond The Horizon - R&D Showcase - NATS Blog- NATS' Research and Development (R&D) department has just hosted a fantastic showcase event bringing together curious minds from across the business to showcase, explore and collaborate on the current R&D projects our teams are undertaking. Made up of a combination of fireside chats, interactive workshops, lectures and a marketplace, the two-day event brought colleagues together to discuss the challenges facing our industry, share fresh ideas, new perspectives and to learn from each other.
  • NAVCANADA Announces New President & CEO- NAVCANADA has recently announced the appointment of a new President & CEO to lead the organization. The incoming leader brings a wealth of experience and is set to guide NAVCANADA towards future success. This leadership change signals a new chapter for NAVCANADA, with a focus on innovation and growth in the aviation industry.
  • QCAA Organizes Training Program for Egyptian Air Traffic Controller- The Qatar Civil Aviation Authority conducted a specialized training program for Egyptian air traffic controllers to enhance their skills and knowledge. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to improve air traffic management and safety in the region. The training program included practical exercises and theoretical workshops to ensure the controllers are well-equipped for their responsibilities.
  • Austro Control with COOPANS upgrades its air traffic control system- Austro Control has announced upgrades to its air traffic control system in collaboration with COOPANS. These improvements aim to enhance the safety and efficiency of air traffic management in the region. The partnership between Austro Control and COOPANS signifies a commitment to modernizing air traffic control technologies and procedures for better performance and reliability.
  • UK Civil Aviation Authority approves Manchester Low-Level Route airspace change - The UK Civil Aviation Authority has approved a low-level route airspace change in Manchester. This decision will impact air traffic in the area and improve efficiency and safety for flights operating in the region.
  • FAA launches aerospace rulemaking committee for space flight safety - Unmanned airspace- FAA ended Fiscal Year 2024 with a record 148 licensed commercial space operations, up more than 30 percent over the prior year. The FAA forecasts that number may more than double by FY 2028 and is launching an Aerospace Rulemaking Committee to update the FAA’s Part 450 launch and reentry licensing rule.
  • Isavia ANS implements Performance Based Navigation (PBN)- Isavia ANS has published a Transition Plan for Performance Based Navigation for Iceland, in the document PBN Transition plan for ICELAND. The document is published in accordance with the Icelandic regulation 444/2020 that implement EU Regulation 2018/1048. Design of standard enroute-, approach- and departure routes will be based on the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) instead of Non-Directional Beacons (NDBs). The Transition Plan was prepared in coordination with airspace users and airports and is updated every year in the fall.
  • NATS announces Clarity, a new way for airports to balance sustainability and operational demands- Currently in development, Clarity will allow airports to analyse and compare the carbon impact of different aspects of their operation and to understand the relative effectiveness of any future sustainability initiatives or investments. NATS believes the tool will help airports to best plan their route to net zero by providing detailed evidence of the value of a whole range of environmental initiatives.
  • AirNav Ireland Launches Sustainability Management Plan And Commits To Measures To Reduce Aviation Ca- Recent environmental initiative yielded an estimated 66,000 kilos of carbon savings following 30-day trial carried out by AirNav Ireland, Cork Airport, Aer Lingus and Ryanair.
  • Airservices Australia seeks community feedback on Hobart Airport flightpath changes- Airservices Australia is inviting the community to have their say on proposed flightpath changes at Hobart Airport. This follows Airservices’ assessment of two community suggested recommendations from the Hobart Airspace Review Post Implementation Review.
  • Morten Fruensgaard becomes new COO of Naviair- Naviair, the Danish air navigation service provider, announces the appointment of Morten Fruensgaard as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO). Fruensgaard brings a wealth of experience in the aviation industry and is set to lead Naviair's operational functions. His strategic vision and leadership skills will contribute to the company's continued success in ensuring safe and efficient air traffic management in Denmark.
  • 21st DANUBE FAB Social Consultation Forum- The 21st DANUBE FAB Social Consultation Forum took place online on 31 October 2024, bringing together representatives from BULATSA, ROMATSA, and their social partners. In light of the recent changes to the SES2+ legislation, DANUBE FAB and its social partners reaffirmed their commitment to cooperation, focusing on enhancing operational efficiency and resilience. Participants discussed current challenges, reviewed strategic initiatives, and emphasized their shared social priorities. This highlighted DANUBE FAB's dedication to an adaptive and collaborative approach in managing airspace in Eastern Europe.
  • Oro Navigacija Presents Lithuanian UTM System Ahead of Implementation- Oro Navigacija has showcased the Lithuanian UTM system in preparation for its upcoming implementation. The unveiling of this advanced technology marks a significant milestone in the field of unmanned traffic management. The Lithuanian UTM system promises to revolutionize the way drones navigate airspace, ensuring safety and efficiency in operations. With this groundbreaking development, Oro Navigacija is at the forefront of UTM innovation.

Airport news

Market news

Context information

  • The European Commission visits ENAIRE's Control Centre in Seville to learn about projects subsidised with European funds- At the initiative of PERTE Aeroespacial, a delegation led by two members of the European Commission visited ENAIRE's Air Traffic Control Centre in Seville yesterday to observe first-hand the investments made under the Government of Spain’s Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan (PRTR) with NextGenerationEU funds.
  • EASA publishes first easy access rules (ATM/ANS equipment)- The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has released the first set of easy access rules for Air Traffic Management/Air Navigation Services (ATM/ANS) equipment. These rules aim to streamline the regulations governing the use and maintenance of essential equipment used in the aviation industry. By providing easier access to this information, EASA seeks to enhance safety standards and efficiency in air traffic management. The new rules will impact manufacturers, operators, and maintenance personnel involved in ATM/ANS equipment across Europe.
  • Auckland Airport remains key economic generator for New Zealand – Airport World- Touch downs at Auckland Airport are driving up New Zealand’s economic fortunes with new aviation infrastructure set to bring tens of billions of dollars more benefit, according to an economic analysis by consultants EY. The airport’s chief customer officer, Scott Tasker, said the investment underway at Auckland Airport will be a key enabler of future growth right across New Zealand.
  • Advanced digital solutions sought for drone operations - Airservices- Airservices Australia is calling on innovative drone technology companies to help shape the future of aviation by delivering advanced digital solutions to drone operators to enhance safety, make it easier to access airspace, and foster industry growth. Uncrewed Aircraft Systems Service Suppliers are invited to submit a Request for Proposal (RFP) to collaborate with Airservices Australia in advancing digital platforms for the next generation of drone operations.
  • Papua New Guinea Renews Contract with Aireon for Space-Based ADS-B- Papua New Guinea has decided to renew its contract with Aireon for their space-based ADS-B technology, enhancing air traffic surveillance capabilities. This partnership is expected to improve air traffic management and safety in the region.
  • EASA Annual Safety Conference 2024: how technological innovation can help humans enhance aviation safety - This year’s EASA Annual Safety Conference took as its theme “Safety – technology – and the human dimension”, focusing on the critical importance of the well-trained human in keeping aviation operations safe, and on the parallel need to apply technology prudently to enhance aviation safety even further.
  • Understanding Resilience and Human Differences in Aviation Safety- This article discusses the importance of evaluating resilience and human variability in the context of aviation safety. It explores how understanding these factors can lead to improved safety measures and more effective risk management strategies within the aviation industry.

Research and innovation

  • INM Update: Eurocontrol Successfully Completes Another Programme Wave Launch - EEAD Shadow- Eurocontrol announces the successful completion of another programme wave launch, including the EEAD Shadow. This update highlights the organization's ongoing efforts to enhance air traffic management efficiency and safety.
  • Advancing Human-AI Collaboration: Dialog Validation Takes Shape- This article discusses the latest advancements in human-AI collaboration and how dialog validation is taking shape as a crucial aspect of this field. The increasing integration of artificial intelligence in various domains necessitates effective methods for validating and optimizing dialog between humans and AI systems. The article delves into the challenges and opportunities in this area, highlighting the importance of seamless communication and interaction between humans and AI entities. By focusing on dialog validation, researchers and developers aim to enhance the usability, reliability, and performance of AI systems across different applications and industries.
  • Aviation's Vulnerability to Climate Change on the Rise: Eurocontrol and ACI Europe Release New Report- A new report by Eurocontrol and ACI Europe highlights the increasing vulnerability of the aviation industry to climate change. The study reveals the challenges faced by the sector as a result of environmental shifts and the urgent need for sustainable practices. With climate-related risks on the rise, the report emphasizes the importance of proactive measures to mitigate the impact of global warming on air travel and airport operations.
  • UK Regulator Unveils New AI Strategy- The UK Civil Aviation Authority has recently released a groundbreaking AI strategy aimed at revolutionizing the aviation industry. The strategy focuses on implementing innovative technologies to enhance safety, efficiency, and sustainability in air travel. By leveraging artificial intelligence, the aviation regulator aims to improve decision-making processes, streamline operations, and ensure compliance with stringent safety standards. This initiative marks a significant step towards embracing digital transformation and fostering a culture of innovation within the aviation sector.
  • Case Study: White Waltham Airfield Streamlines Drone Flight Applications- This case study explores how White Waltham Airfield has improved their drone flight application process. By streamlining procedures, they have increased efficiency and safety in managing drone operations. The case study highlights the benefits of enhancing flight application systems for aviation security.
  • Eyes in the sky: enhancing air traffic safety with eye tracking technology - NATS Blog- This article discusses the use of eye tracking technology in enhancing air traffic safety. By monitoring the eye movements of air traffic controllers and pilots, this technology can help identify potential issues and improve overall situational awareness, leading to safer skies.
  • SESAR Response Project to Address Pilot Incapacitation- The SESAR Response project is focused on addressing pilot incapacitation during flights by developing innovative solutions. The project aims to enhance safety measures and protocols to ensure the well-being of pilots and passengers alike. By implementing new technologies and procedures, the aviation industry can better respond to emergencies involving pilot health issues, ultimately improving overall flight safety.
  • Transforming altimetry for a safer, more efficient aviation future - SESAR JU- Accurate altitude measurement is a critical challenge in Air Traffic Management, where even small errors can affect safety and efficiency. John Godsell, NATS, is leading work in the Green-GEAR that is exploring the transition from barometric to geometric altimetry. In this interview he explains how the project is addressing the transition to improve airspace management for a safer, more sustainable aviation future.
  • Eyes in the sky: enhancing air traffic safety with eye tracking technology- This article discusses the use of eye tracking technology to enhance air traffic safety. By monitoring air traffic controllers' eye movements, potential risks can be identified and addressed more effectively, ultimately leading to a safer airspace. Blog by NATS.
  • SESAR Innovation Days 2024: A catalyst for ATM transformation- From 11-15 November, more than 600 leading European researchers, industry stakeholders, and policymakers gathered in Rome for the 14th SESAR Innovation Days (SIDs), the flagship event for air traffic management research and innovation in Europe. Hosted by Aeroporti di Roma, ENAV, and Leonardo and organised by the SESAR JU, the conference featured more than 37 posters, 54 technical papers, and a diverse range of sessions on topics including climate-optimised trajectories, innovative air mobility, digital flight rules and quantum computing.
  • ‘CLEAN ATM 2’ & ‘GREEN CNS’ awarded €141 million to accelerate modernisation of European sky - SESAR DM- Paloma Aba Garrote, Director of CINEA (the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency), Mariagrazia La Piscopia, Executive Director of the SDM and Raúl Medina, Director General of EUROCONTROL and representing the Organisation in its role as SDM Consortium Coordinator, today celebrated the signature of two Grant Agreements awarding €141 million in total to the CLEAN ATM 2 and GREEN CNS projects.
  • SESAR partners advance dynamic airspace reconfiguration for safer, more efficient air mobility- SESAR JU partners recently conducted a series of technology validations focused on advancing dynamic airspace reconfiguration within the framework the ENSURE project. From November 6 to November 8, 2024, these tests took place at the CRIDA premises in Madrid, concentrating on developing DAR processes that will improve airspace management, particularly in complex airport environments.
  • Blockchain in Aviation- Aviation is a critical industry that forms the backbone of the global economy and transports millions of people safely every day. The industry’s top priority is to maintain the highest standards of flight safety and security at all times. However, with increasing digitalization and data flows, ensuring security poses a major challenge, especially in terms of information sharing and ensuring the accuracy of data. This is where blockchain technology stands out as an innovative solution that could revolutionize aviation safety.
  • White Paper: Enhancing E-AMAN with Space-Based ADS-B - Aireon - The aviation community is facing complex challenges: surging air traffic, the imperative for efficiency, sustainability, and safety. ICAO, SESAR, and other initiatives drive modernization, having yielded many practical solutions ready for deployment. At major airports, tools like the Arrival Manager are enhancing operations, yet traditional AMAN systems encounter limitations for example, if input data is insufficiently available to enable extended planning. Enter the Frequentis Extended Arrival Manager leveraging AireonFLOW — a global, high-fidelity, low-latency position data source.
  • EASA grants STC to Aerodata for anti-jamming anti-spoofing system - Unmanned airspace- Aerodata AG has been granted a Supplemental Type Certificate by EASA for its GPS anti-jamming and anti-spoofing system. This certification applies to installations integrated with Garmin 5000 avionics in a Cessna Citation Latitude jet.

Reports and data

UAV and UTM

  • EUROCAE publishes industry position report on ACAS sXu standard - Unmanned airspace- EUROCAE has announced the publication of ER-032 “European Industry Position Report on RTCA SC-147 ACAS sXu”. ACAS (Aircraft Collision Avoidance System) sXu is an aviation system designed to provide detect and avoid (DAA) capability for drones operating beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS).
  • United Arab Emirates eases drone ban and launches nationwide UAS platform- The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has made significant strides in the regulation and integration of drones by easing a previous ban and introducing a nationwide Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) platform. This initiative signals a proactive approach to embracing drone technology while ensuring safety and compliance with aviation standards. The UAE's commitment to facilitating UAS operations showcases their dedication to fostering innovation and economic growth through the responsible deployment of unmanned aerial systems.
  • Japan and Singapore agree to jointly develop UAS and AAM regulations - Unmanned airspace- The civil aviation authorities of Singapore (CAAS) and Japan (JCAB) have agreed to deepen collaboration in air connectivity, sustainable aviation, aviation safety, air traffic management, aviation innovation, and uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and advanced air mobility (AAM), to serve rising demand for global air travel which is expected to at least double over the next 20 years.
  • BIRDS to use High Lander UTM system in Brazilian airspace management project - Unmanned airspace- High Lander’s São Paulo-based subsidiary BIRDS will use the company’s Vega uncrewed traffic management (UTM) system to manage airspace as part of Brazil’s BR-UTM project. Following acceptance into the project by the Brazilian Department of Airspace Control (DECEA), BIRDS will demonstrate the system to the authority as it investigates the implementation of UTM technology throughout the country.
  • Is Europe ready for U-space? Yes – but…. - Unmanned airspace- Commentary by Philip Butterworth-Hayes.Last week’s Innovative Air Mobility Implementation Forum organised by EASA took stock of progress towards developing U-space airspace areas in Europe.