Transitioning from rigid arrival structures to more dynamic systems has been identified as a promising method to make aviation more environmentally sustainable, while addressing capacity demands in the terminal manoeuvring area (TMA).
Both the GALAAD and DYN-MARS project are tackling this challenge with distinct but complementary approaches.
GALAAD's focus is primarily to improve ground systems and the management of terminal airspace operations, aiming to transition from rigid performance-based navigation (PBN) route structures to a more flexible system. DYN-MARS, on the other hand, is centred on avionics innovations and improving the efficiency of aircraft during descent and approach, including the optimisation of vertical and speed profiles.
Both projects are approaching the same target objectives from different viewpoints, aiming to make Europe the most efficient and environmentally-friendly sky to fly in.
GALAAD: Steering aircraft towards a more flexible – and green –final approach
The project addresses a concept for PBN route structures (trombones, point merge or other) to be activated or deactivated depending, for example on; the time of day, noise control purposes, or on traffic demand. This would avoid the use of complex route structures during periods of low demand, enabling agile responses to variations of operational conditions in the terminal area such as traffic density, airspace availability or environmental constraints.
The end-to-end concept is addressed with the delivery of the appropriate STAR clearance to each aircraft via voice or controller pilot data link communication (CPDLC) thanks to enhanced onboard capabilities to support the Pilot in his/her decision for proposed trajectory acceptance.
The arrival manager (AMAN) system with its enhanced functionalities is expected to support ATCO’s for the dynamic assignment of the optimal and most eco-efficient PBN route structures, depending on metrics such as predicted arrival airborne delay.
The dynamic use of PBN route structures will allow trade-offs and optimisation of benefits depending on traffic demand (e.g. improved capacity during peak periods, fuel-efficient operations during off-peaks, reduced noise footprint at night) in the TMA.
GALAAD will concentrate its efforts on enhancing operations within the terminal area airspace, with a specific focus on achieving greater fuel efficiency and environmental sustainability without compromising capacity, safety, human performance or cost efficiency.
DYN-MARS: Optimising energy management for descent and landing
DYN-MARS on the other hand is attempting to minimise the flight environmental footprint during descent and landing through improved collaboration between pilot and ATC in planning and executing flights through novel avionic functions. Dynamic route structures maintain closed loop procedures which are sized according to traffic conditions, enabling the pilot or FMS to accurately predict and plan an optimal descent and approach. This will help improve an aircraft’s energy management.
The DYN-MARS solution aims to allow pilots to plan their optimum descent profile more autonomously, while ATC will ensure the appropriate separation needed with other aircraft.
To achieve these goals, the project is developing novel flight management system (FMS) functionalities which will provide optimised display flying cues to the flight crew (i.e. suggestions on high lift device extension, landing gear extension, speed brakes use and optimal speed settings) enabling a significantly enhanced aircraft energy management, which is particularly useful during ATC speed interventions. These new avionic functions were designed with the additional goal to reduce pilots’ workload during these demanding flight phases.
As a result, the aircraft’s emissions (noise, CO2, etc.) will be noticeably reduced during the approach thanks to a decrease in the number of level-offs and the use of idle thrust. This facilitates the optimisation of the aircraft’s energy management, directly related to its specific capabilities.
Collaboration driving progress
Co-fund within the framework of Horizon Europe, GALAAD and DYN-MARS projects have a dependency on each other to ensure their outcomes are complementary. While GALAAD enhances air traffic management (ATM) flexibility with ATCO’s as a central focus, DYN-MARS contributes critical insights into avionics, optimising descent and approach procedures with the Flight Deck/Crew/Pilot as the key element.
From the outset, both projects implemented a structured coordination approach, maintaining regular alignment and leveraging each other’s expertise, particularly in-flight management systems and dynamic route allocation. Their collaboration is further reinforced by serving as mutual advisory boards, guiding research directions in line with SESAR programme goals.
Looking ahead, GALAAD and DYN-MARS may explore joint validation exercises to assess their solutions more comprehensively. This collaboration aims to drive improvements in fuel efficiency, CO2 reduction, and environmental sustainability, ultimately enhancing the performance of the European ATM system.
Advancing Standardisation in European aviation
GALAAD and DYN-MARS play a key role in advancing the standardisation of the European aviation network. Their work supports a more sustainable and efficient future by providing recommendations on airspace navigation, flow management, and performance-based arrival and departure procedures. As part of SESAR JU’s “Aviation Green Deal” and “Air-Ground Integration and Autonomy” (TBO – trajectory-based operations) flagships, both projects contribute to shaping the next generation of European aviation.