ASTRA, acronym for “AI-enabled tactical FMP hotspot prediction and resolution”, officially started in September 2023 under the SESAR Joint Undertaking initiative. The project aims to bridge the gap between the flow management position (FMP) and the planner controller working position (CWP) thanks to an innovative AI-based tool which can predict traffic congestion earlier than today. The project counts a consortium composed of 5 companies from 4 different countries, highly specialized in the field of aviation, that will guide ASTRA to the achievements of its goal.

The working group of ASTRA, led by the Universita ta Malta, includes other four training and consultancy companies research entities: Innovacion y gestion en navegacion aerea s.l. (Spain), Deep Blue Srl (Italy), Skysoft-ATM s.a. (Switzerland) and SKYGUIDE, SA Suisse pour le services de la navigation aérienne civils et militaires (Switzerland).

The challenge of hotspot predictions

Today’s air traffic flow and capacity management measures are based on fight plan data and are implemented during the pre-tactical and tactical flow management phases. This means that solutions for traffic congestion, or hotspots, must be found within a tight 20-minute window, which corresponds to the lead time for hotspot predictions today.. ASTRA, in the next two and a half years, wants to extend this lead time significantly by developing an FMP function capable of predicting hotspots at least one hour in advance.

The power of artificial intelligence: unlocking benefits through it

One of ASTRA's key focuses within the framework of artificial intelligence is the interaction between human operators and AI systems. Recognising the importance of this aspect, a substantial effort is put on developing Human Machine Interface concepts to allow the operators to interact with the new technology in the easiest and safest way possible. The introduction and integration of a new AI-based tool would bring benefits at different levels, like increased capacity at Air Traffic Control (ATC) unit level, better adherence to efficient and green business trajectories and reduced Air Traffic Control Operators (ATCO) workload and more predictable operations.

For those seeking more information on ASTRA's groundbreaking work, follow the project on LinkedIn and X profile and keep an eye out for upcoming developments in the world of aviation technology and air traffic management.