2026 Agenda

As Europe advances toward digitalised, data-driven air traffic management, the ESA
Iris programme is entering a critical new phase. Building on several years of successful operational performance, the programme is now expanding into Iris Global – a worldwide interoperable datalink service based on the proven L-band SB-S satellite network and full aligned with ICAO ATN/IPS standards.

Iris Global is designed to support the evolution of TBO Trajectory-Based Operations (TBO) including mandated Extended Projected Profile (EPP) and future i4D trajectory negotiation. This positions the programme to enable progressively more advanced TBO functions such as ATN/IPS and FF-ICE v2 become adopted by ANSPs. This evolution strengthens the foundations for modern ATM by enabling predictable, efficient information exchange across regions, platforms and operational environments. While the programme incorporates multilink capabilities as part of its roadmap, the core version of Iris Global is the delivery of a harmonised, scalable, safety-critical datalink service accessible worldwide.

The session will begin with brief programme update outlining the operational status of Iris today, it’s pathway to Iris Global and the key enhancements supporting global interoperability and adoption. Following this, Viasat will host a panel featuring ESA, Viasat and (TBC) exploring how Iris Global fits into the future landscape of aviation communication. The discussion will examine global regulatory alignment, the transition to ATN/IPC-based services and how Iris Global will enable safer, smarter and more efficient airspace operations for crewed and uncrewed airspace.

A key strategic element is Boeing’s transition to ATN/IPS across its global fleet which represents approximately 50% of worldwide commercial flights. This is expected to accelerate Iris Global adoption and ensure early large-scale operational impact.

By enabling more predictable trajectories, Iris Global also supports the TBO-driven reductions in fuel burn, CO2 emissions and delays that align strongly with Europe’s operational and environmental priorities