The digital transformation of air traffic management was the focus of an exhibition hosted by the SESAR Joint Undertaking (SESAR JU) and the FAA’s NextGen Programme at the Paris Air Lab, an innovative space within the 2017 International Paris Air Show at Le Bourget from 19-25 June.

Throughout the week, industrial leaders, members of the European parliament, French institutional representatives and international delegations visited the SESAR/NextGen exhibition space to find out more about these two leading modernisation programmes and their joint efforts to ensure interoperability and harmonisation in global air traffic management.

Using a 3D virtual system, visitors were given the opportunity to step into the shoes of an air traffic controller and manage traffic at a busy airport using a range of digital tools delivered by both programmes. The 3-minute experience showed how the digital transformation of ATM can improve the efficiency and safety of airport operations, while also reducing the fuel consumption and emissions of aircraft. The 3D experience was particularly popular with the younger visitors to the air show, who patiently lined up to see for themselves the future of ATM.

The International Paris Air Show was organised by the SIAE, a subsidiary of GIFAS, the French Aerospace Industries Association.