As part of our contribution towards the Single European Sky ATM Research (SESAR) programme, we have been working on the next phase of the Increased Flexibility in Air Traffic Controller (ATCO) Validations (IFAV) project.

Our 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.

During the Spring an impressive 3D simulator was built, configured, assured, and then put to good use alongside similar new systems at Aberdeen and Southampton airports. This was then followed by two new systems entering operational service within 24 hours in early November, almost certainly a first for the unit since its original fit-out back in 1966.

Humans are at the heart of air traffic management. They are responsible for keeping our skies safe, and ensuring traffic continues to flow safely and efficiently. Despite rapid advancements in technology that support Air Traffic Controllers (ATCOs) in managing more aircraft, the role of the human as the decision maker has not changed.

This week saw our third annual Intelligent Approach Customer Summit, with representatives from NAV CANADA and LVNL – as well as from ANSPs in Europe and the Middle East – joining us in our UK head office.

Last week the CAA announced the latest round of ‘BVLOS Sandbox’ projects, all chosen to help push us one step closer to realising routine drone operations in the UK.

At Farnborough International Airshow 2024, Richard Ellis, NATS Head of New Airspace Users, joined the Global Urban & Advanced Air Summit (GUAAS) to discuss pathways to achieving commercial sustainability in Advanced Air Mobility. 

Over the past few years, the Operational Service Enhancements Project (OSEP) has been quietly but significantly transforming airspace operations, culminating in tangible benefits for both operational efficiency and the environment.

In this blog, Rich Crooks, Manager Airspace Delivery, explains how NATS is progressing the path to modernise UK airspace.

Over 70 representatives from the aviation industry joined us at Whiteley, for a Mass Diversion Exercise to trial a new tool being developed by EUROCONTROL. Airlines, airports, the CAA and Department for Transport helped us carry out a full-scale trial of an electronic interface, designed to improve the management of aircraft diversions during runway closures and weather events.