Page 13 - ATC Special Bulletin Series - Future Skies 2024

UNIFIED VISION FOR THE FUTURE:
The culminating plenary session of the event aimed to establish a unified vision for integrated traffic management in the future. Moderated by industry experts, discussions highlighted the imperative need to align visions for ATM and AAM, with concerns raised about the regulatory framework and the necessity for a roadmap to guide integration. Participants stressed the importance of ensuring that digitization yields comprehensive benefits across various stakeholders, with a focus on enhancing capacity and individual aircraft benefits. Additionally, there was consensus on the necessity of establishing a robust architecture for digital exchanges and communications, along with addressing bandwidth challenges to facilitate adequate data transfer capabilities.
Discussions also delved into exploring Trajectory- Based Operations (TBO), acknowledging the potential benefits of negotiated trajectory versus vehicle-to-vehicle communication approaches. Participants agreed on the opportunity to validate operational concepts in AAM, aiming to extend benefits to other users and promote cross-industry collaboration. Furthermore, emphasis was placed on embracing automated and machine-to-machine operations in both ATM and AAM, managing operations by exception and enabling information sharing. The session also examined the concept of networked operations to encompass the entire end-to-end trajectory in ATM, considering practical challenges such as the scale of vertiport versus airport operations and the regulatory framework.
Participants discussed research roadmaps and timelines, focusing on key areas such as vehicle- to-vehicle communications, wake susceptibility impacts, cooperative surveillance, and the role of artificial intelligence in optimizing trajectories. Overall, the session highlighted the importance of driving innovation and collaboration to realize the vision of integrated traffic management, ensuring a harmonised and efficient future for both ATM and AAM.
REFLECTIONS AND CONCLUSION:
As participants bid farewell to NASA Ames, the
event left an indelible mark on the future of aviation. Reflecting on the discussions and insights shared, it became evident that collaboration and innovation are the cornerstones of transforming our skies. With a shared commitment to shaping the future of aviation, stakeholders departed with renewed determination to harness technology and drive progress in ATM and AAM. The journey towards a unified sky vision continues, propelled by the spirit of collaboration and the quest for innovation.
In conclusion, the event served as a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in shaping the future of aviation. As we navigate the complexities of airspace management and advanced mobility, events like these pave the way for a harmonised and innovative future in the skies. The important discourse on ATM and AAM integration that started at this event will continue at the upcoming Airspace World event, scheduled from 19th to 21st March 2024 in Geneva. We are thrilled with the outcomes of the event and the momentum it has generated. We hope to keep the discussion going and look forward to seeing you again next year as we continue our collaborative efforts to create a unified vision for the future of our skies.
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