The SESAR Joint Undertaking is responsible for the implementation of the ATM Master Plan and for carrying out specific activities aiming at developing the new generation air traffic management system capable of ensuring the safety and fluidity of air transport worldwide over the next thirty years. The recent tragic accident that recently occurred over the South Atlantic has shown that substantial improvement is needed in order to ensure appropriate monitoring of air traffic in oceanic and remote low density airspace. It also showed the need to optimise the coordination between Air Traffic Services and Search And Rescue services in these oceanic areas.

Vice-President of the European Commission and Commissioner for Transport Antonio Tajani, expressed concerns over this issue during the Transport Ministers Council on June 11th; the SESAR Joint Undertaking has been tasked to analyze this issue and make recommendations on a way forward.

In order to progress on this matter, the SJU considers that launching a specific initiative on flight tracking in oceanic and remote areas is the most adequate tool. The objective of this call for tender is to select contractor(s) for the performance of a study and flight demonstrations - co-funded for a maximum amount of 360.000€ - aiming at demonstrating the feasibility to implement oceanic tracking services in the Atlantic at a reasonable cost and within a limited timeframe (2010).

"Thanks to these flight demonstrations, we expect air traffic services providers, airlines flying over the Atlantic and satellite services providers to participate. It is an unique opportunity to accelerate progress together towards an effective oceanic tracking service." commented Patrick Ky, Executive Director of the SESAR Joint Undertaking.

Further contact: Procurement
Email: [email protected]