This Solution was formerly part of PJ.18-02a-W1

Current air traffic management is based on a filed flight plan and tactical interventions by ATC as the flight progresses. In current operations, multiple tactical instructions are issued with a limited use of CPDLC (reduced to simple clearances), and any no automated checks for air-ground trajectory consistency. The idea behind trajectory-based operations (TBO) is to enable the ATM system to modify, where appropriate, the flight’s planned and actual trajectory before or during a flight based on accurate information that has been shared by all stakeholders. This will lead to efficiency gains for airspace users and the network as a whole.

This candidate solution makes use of enhanced operational procedures based on a more efficient use of controller pilot data link communications (CPDLC) with lateral and vertical data link clearances. The solution aims to leverage the usage of the current ATS Baseline 2 mandate and paves the way for future automation levels, as outlined in the European ATM Master Plan.

Thanks to automation, executive and planning controllers will be able to propose multi-element clearances with a longer look-ahead time. This may include proposals in advance by downstream sectors to modify or optimise portions of the trajectory while the flight is still in the current sector (the sector controlling the aircraft).  Early and accurate knowledge of the FMS predicted trajectory will support the use of such advance clearances, enabling a move towards optimised pre-tactical traffic management.

BENEFITS

Increased capacity

Improved controller and flight crew productivity

Improved trajectory prediction

Increased flight efficiency