The SESAR2020 project PJ 06 focused on validating the benefits of extending free routing (FRA) into complex airspace and lower vertical limits through modelling and real-time simulations.

Benefits
The free routing (FR) concept enables airspace users to fly as close as possible to their preferred trajectory, without being constrained by fixed airspace structures or fixed route networks.

FR implementation represents a step towards the less fragmented European airspace targeted by the Single European Sky (SES). It provides airspace users with the possibility to fly their user-preferred routes, in accordance with their business needs or mission requirements.

FR resulted in a seamless airspace, enabling more efficient flights, a reduction in airspace user costs. This will promote cheaper travel, increasing personal mobility and trade.

Implementing free routing airspace (FRA) will additionally reduce the greenhouse gas emissions that currently contribute to global warming, thereby creating a greener airspace.

PJ06 partners validated, through modelling and real-time simulations, both the benefit to AUs and the impact on ATM of this extension of FRA into complex airspace and lower vertical limits.

The corresponding effect on the network of the change of traffic flows, and the need to balance flight efficiency with capacity, are important aspects of this project.

Solutions
This project covered the following solutions:

Solution PJ06-01 - Optimised traffic management to enable free routing in high and very-high complexity environments
Partners: ACG/COOPANS, CCL/COOPANS, DSNA, ENAIRE, ENAV, EUROCONTROL, INDRA, LDO, Naviair/COOPANS,skyguide, LFV/COOPANS, THALES LAS
Solution PJ06-02 - Management of Performance Based Free Routing in Lower Airspace