Understanding human-AI interaction at Airspace World

A key session at Airspace World 2024, in the Frequentis Theatre on 19 March, will explore the opportunities and challenges in artificial intelligence (AI) implementation.

The technology is paving the way for a smarter, more efficient air traffic management system. But, Mark Cooper, Vice President, Chief Technology and Information Officer, NAV CANADA and one of the panellists, says it is important to realise that humans are integral to AI development.

“Today and in the near future we have to treat AI as a way to improve the human and to make information available to our highly skilled controllers to improve safety, efficiency and sustainability,” he notes.

Because the human-AI interaction is vital, recruitment is especially important going forward. “Setting the right vision and creating the right environment is critical for attracting the right people,” says Cooper. “That said, AI is evolving so quickly that we all need to partner with a variety of companies and academia to develop the right solutions that meet the business need.

“It all depends on how we position ourselves,” he continues. “Yes, the historical reputation of air navigation service providers (ANSPs) is to move slowly. But our industry is also fascinating and touches millions of people.”

Although the industry is in the very early stages of AI, the potential for the technology to revolutionise ATM systems cannot be questioned. AI will improve the on-time performance of airlines, increase automation in corporate functions and assist with the development and testing of systems, for example. 

“We have been experimenting with AI in controller training and it’s an area that fills me with excitement,” Cooper adds. “Using AI to provide real time feedback and on-demand simulations targeted at the specific needs of the trainee can only help to increase the pass rate from controller training and reduce the time from ‘street to seat’. Within operations we are focusing on decision support and augmenting the air traffic controller with additional information to make the best possible decision.”

Cooper accepts that gaining certification for AI into safety critical systems is going to be a significant challenge, which is why NAV CANADA is focusing on decision support. Both ANSPs and regulators have a lot of work ahead in this respect though an excellent start has been made by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) with its roadmap for AI certification.

“Most ANSPs have a significant amount of legacy technology, so moving forward to AI is especially challenging – but also essential,” concludes Cooper.

Title: How AI is transforming ATM

When: 10:00am, Tuesday 19 March

Where: Frequentis Theatre

Take to the floor with SESAR walking tours

Get a taste of the transformation that is underway in air traffic management (ATM) thanks to SESAR members and stakeholders through a series of walking tours that are taking place at the Airspace World. The walking tours will give visitors an opportunity to meet with experts from the SESAR community and see first-hand the wide variety of solutions that are being delivered and deployed across Europe.

The tours cover all areas of air traffic management, namely airport operations, network operations, air traffic service provision, as well as showcasing the enabling the technologies (CNS, etc), as well as all phases from innovation to deployment.

Find out more here

ANSP skeyes at the ATM industry event Airspace World in Geneva

The Belgian Air Navigation Service Provider (ANSP) skeyes will participate in this year’s prestigious Airspace World exhibition in Geneva from March 19 to 21. This exhibition is considered the largest and most prominent event in the field of air traffic management worldwide. skeyes will showcase its expertise in airspace management, with a special focus this year on unmanned aviation, innovation, training, and sustainability. The skeyes booth at the ASW Geneva 2024 exhibition can be found at location O11.

As an air navigation service provider in Belgium, skeyes is responsible for airspace management above Belgium and a part of Luxembourg. With a strong commitment to safety and efficiency, skeyes offers a full range of essential aviation services, including flight information and airspace design.

Here’s an Overview of skeyes presentations at Airspace World 2024
​Interested visitors can participate in various sessions at the skeyes booth O11.

Focus on Unmanned Aviation

skeyes attaches great importance to the opportunities offered by the emerging sector of unmanned aviation. Therefore, the ANSP participates in various development and collaboration projects with partners in the industry. Additionally, through the BURDI project, skeyes plays a significant role in testing and implementing the U-space concept and creating a European regulatory framework.

Focus on Sustainable operations

In 2023, skeyes proudly became one of the pioneers to receive the CANSO GreenATM Level 3 award in Europe. This prestigious recognition underscores skeyes’ commitment to enhancing sustainability, both within its internal operations and in collaboration with its customers. skeyes is convinced that, if widely embraced by the sector, this quality label is evidence of the collective endeavour of the entire industry towards a more sustainable and CO2-neutral aviation sector.

Focus on Training

Through the Entry Point North Belgium joint venture, skeyes has its own training centre. Interested exhibition visitors can obtain information at the booth about expertise in training, as well as potential career opportunities.

Focus on Innovation

SkeyDrone, the joint venture representing skeyes and Brussels Airport, keeps a close eye on unmanned aviation and is also shortlisted for two CANSO Awards. The subsidiary is nominated in the categories of Digital Transformation in ATM and Integration of Drones/AAM.

MicroStep-MIS to showcase its latest technology in monitoring

MicroStep-MIS is thrilled to showcase the company’s latest technological advancements in the area of aviation meteorology at stand no. M10 of Airspace World 2024. As a certified air navigation service provider by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Slovak Republic, the company offers a comprehensive portfolio of systems for civil and military airports.

MicroStep-MIS’ aviation systems are ICAO and WMO compliant, scalable to ICAO CAT III, and adaptable to various climates worldwide. The company prioritises customisation, tailoring each system to their clients’ needs. The company’s presence at Airspace World emphasises the unique blend of technological innovation and comprehensive integration – providing meteorological solutions from A to Z.

The centerpiece of the company’s showcase is the IMS4 integrated monitoring system. Developed since 1993, IMS4 ensures nonstop operation with hundreds of installations in more than 80 countries all over the world. Visitors of the stand no. M10 can also physically explore the Portable Automatic Weather Station, equipped with a wide set of sensors and two from the series of AMS data loggers for comprehensive data collection.

However, the most invaluable aspect of the company’s presence at the expo will be the MicroStep-MIS specialists, who will be available throughout the three days of the event. The team of MicroStep-MIS aviation weather experts is eager to welcome visitors to the stand, engage in meaningful discussions, and address any inquiries or needs.

MicroStep’s latest technology

Introducing Remote Observer, the groundbreaking system set to revolutionise airport observation technology. The system boasts innovative features designed to enhance meteorological observations and ensure operational safety in any weather condition.

One of the standout features of Remote Observer is the air umbrella system, developed by the team of MicroStep-MIS hardware specialists. The technology shields camera lenses from raindrops, enabling seamless operation even during inclement weather conditions prevalent in various regions.

Remote Observer comprises two camera systems: AeroCloud and AeroVis. AeroVis offers a panoramic 360° view by merging imagery from multiple cameras, allowing observers to assess visibility with unparalleled accuracy. This immersive perspective transforms weather monitoring, enhancing safety and efficiency in airport operations.

Complementing AeroVis, the AeroCloud system captures dome-shaped sky images using visual and infrared cameras. The infrared camera’s prowess in cloud cover detection, even during night operations, provides valuable insights into prevailing weather conditions, contributing to safer air traffic management.

Moreover, Remote Observer offers enhanced observer management, allowing year-round airports to monitor multiple locations simultaneously, optimising resources without compromising safety. With stored data available for weeks to months, Remote Observer serves as a valuable resource for weather analysis and observer training.

The system’s affordability and flexibility make it an ideal solution for modern airports. By offering a panoramic view akin to observation towers without the hefty construction costs, Remote Observer enhances the observer’s workplace experience, ensuring comfort and efficiency.

Furthermore, it enables uninterrupted observation anytime, anywhere, empowering observers to monitor runway operations remotely, ensuring operational safety under any circumstances.

Shaping the future of ATC: Rohde & Schwarz at Airspace World 2024

Rohde & Schwarz is actively shaping the future of air traffic control operations. At Airspace World 2024, the company will showcase the comprehensive CERTIUM portfolio and further innovative solutions.

Embracing digital transformation is vital in shaping the future of air traffic control (ATC). Implementing future-proof solutions with enhanced operational advantages has been a major priority for air navigation service providers (ANSP) over the years. With more than a decade of successful migrations to full IP communication systems around the globe, Rohde & Schwarz stands out as the ideal partner for the transition to modern, resilient and secure digital infrastructure.

At Airspace Word 2024, Rohde & Schwarz will present its extensive experience and portfolio on topics such as:

• Migration to VoIP, with services and solutions optimised to support the process
• Trendsetting, fully IP-based VCS solutions for modern ATC networks
• Innovative CERTIUM RADIOS with security-by-design architecture
• ATC voice quality assurance, now enhanced with patented loopback monitoring
• Reliable identification and localisation of calling aircraft on the radar screen
• Drone-based T&M equipment for high-precision analysis of GBAS during ground and flight operations
• Product launch: Introducing a new compact drone localization solution – for effective detection and countering of non-cooperative drones and their pilots

Rohde & Schwarz will round off the package with highly informative expert talks. The established event format covers specific topics, with technical deep dives and insightful dialogs on future trends in air communications. This focus of this year’s Rohde & Schwarz speaker slots are:

• Digital transformation: How to leverage IP benefits in ATC – Wednesday, 20 March, 12:00, Future Skies Theatre
• Addressing the risk of air traffic interruptions posed by drones – Wednesday, 20 March, 13:00, Wing Theatre
• How LDACS can drive the digital transformation of ATM – Wednesday, 20 March ,16:30, Future Skies Theatre

EUROCONTROL at Airspace World 2024

At Airspace World 2024, EUROCONTROL will come together again with its European aviation partners (DG MOVE, EASA, EDA, EUROCAE, EUSPA, INEA, SDM and SJU) as the #EuropeForAviation team.

Over the course of the three-day global event, Europe for Aviation will showcase how, through collaboration, it is tackling the most pressing challenges facing the European aviation industry, promoting the modernisation, sustainability and resilience of a safe European aviation.

Visit the joint stand H22 to connect with EUROCONTROL experts and to see first-hand some of the latest developments in aviation through interactive demos and presentations.

There is a packed programme to engage with – including a series of panel sessions and briefings across the various theatres where Europe for Aviation will explore a wide range of topics linked to ATM transformation, cross-border operation optimisation, civil-military cooperation, CNS developments, crisis management, digitalisation, innovation, preparing for summer 2024 traffic, and safety.

See the full programme here.

Integrating technology without causing disruption

A number of key trends will shape the future of air traffic management in the coming years. Exactly how the various opportunities and challenges will play out will be discussed in a vibrant session at the Frequentis Theatre on 20 March, as part of Airspace World.

Captain Norazman Mahmud, CEO, Civil Aviation Authority Malaysia, and one of the panellists, says many of the trends result from the increasing demand for air travel and the need for more efficient and sustainable operations.

“Developing and implementing eco-friendly practices, such as optimising flight paths to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, should be a priority for the future,” he says.

Technology will be integral to sustainability success. But integrating advanced communication, navigation, and surveillance (CNS) systems, automation, and artificial intelligence into existing ATM infrastructure is a complex task. Updating such systems without causing disruption remains a significant hurdle.

However, as technology becomes commonplace in air traffic management, the risk of cyberattacks increases. “Ensuring the security of communication networks, data and control systems is vital to maintain the safety and integrity of the aviation infrastructure,” agrees Mahmud. “Also, the rise in automation accentuates the importance of addressing human factors. Ensuring effective interaction between air traffic controllers and other personnel with automated systems, especially in handling unusual or emergency situations, remains an ongoing challenge.”

Last but not least, Mahmud highlights the integration of drones and other unmanned aircraft into controlled airspace. “This introduces challenges related to safety, regulation, and technology,” he says. “We must establish clear rules and procedures for the seamless coexistence of manned and unmanned aircraft.”

Read the full interview with Captain Mahmud in Airspace magazine.

Title: Transformations for the future ATM

When: 13:00, Wednesday 20 March

Where: Frequentis Theatre

Skyguide at Airspace World 2024

Visit Skyguide at booth #J21 and discover how the Swiss ANSP paves the way in a changing the ATM industry.

Skyguide will exhibit together with SkySoft-ATM  and WEYTEC at the Airspace World in Geneva – the largest and most influential airspace and near-space management event in the world!

The company joins industry innovators from 19 to 21 March 2024 to introduce the recent developments of its professional air navigation related services:

SKYRF CNS DRONE.

Using drone technology for CNS measurements to achieve more accurate results in a time and cost effective manner.

DLS COCKPIT.

End-to-end monitoring and fault analysis of the CPDLC service quality in real-time through a user-friendly search engine and customisable dashboards.

PROCEDURE AND AIRSPACE DESIGN

Improvement of operational performance in the field of IFP and airspace structure. Skyguide provides design, verification and maintenance of flight procedures and/or airspace volumes.

ATC/ATM TRAINING AND PEOPLE DEVELOPMENT

Tailor-made trainings with a strong focus on people development and covering all areas of air traffic management.

Want to meet one of Skyguide’s experts? Book your slot right now!

Seamless cross-border ATM operations explored at Airspace World

Seamless cross-border air traffic management (ATM) relies on simplifying the complex world of international regulatory harmonisation and agreements.

Participants in a stimulating panel discussion at Airspace World 2024, in the Boeing Theatre on Tuesday 19 March, will explore the critical role of collaboration among nations and organisations in streamlining cross-border airspace management. It will also examine the challenges, enablers and future prospects of harmonisation efforts, highlighting the importance of global cooperation for enhancing the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of international aviation operations.

Victor Liu, Director General, Civil Aviation Department, Hong Kong, China, and one of the panellists says: “The Asia-Pacific region has been the fastest growing region in the last few decades, and this will continue to be so according to all the forecasts, including CANSO’s. To maintain sustainable development and efficient operations, collaboration among states, administrations and air navigation service providers (ANSPs) are essential.”

On the panel, Liu will share Hong Kong’s experiences in equipping and enhancing the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department’s capability to play its role, as well as how to collaborate with regional ANSPs and stakeholders with different perspectives.

Title: How AI is transforming ATM

When: 10:00am, Tuesday 19 March

Where: Frequentis Theatre

Your Airspace World highlights for Thursday 21 March

On the last day of Airspace World 2024, Airspace World 2024 will bring together thousands of visitors for three days of exhibition, discussion and debate at the world’s largest air traffic management event.

Thursday sees the first ever selection of sessions aimed at young professionals and students in the aviation industry – Future Skies; Tomorrow’s Voices, as well as hours of other topics.

Future Skies: Tomorrow’s Voices is produced by CANSO, in partnership with the SESAR Engage 2 Network and Firstfruits Services. It gives young graduates and professionals aged 20 to 28 the chance to dive into the heart of the air traffic management and aerospace industries, engage with decision makers, and gain insights that will help them develop successful careers.

The programme is made up of a number of engaging sessions designed to provide valuable insights and encourage discussions between seasoned leaders and the young participants.

See the full programme of events, which all take place in the Frequentis Theatre, here.

The four other theatres continue to bring the widest range of content to Airspace World attendees. Following on from our highlights of Tuesday 19 and Wednesday 20 March, here are some of the highlights for Thursday 21 March. For details of all the events, take a look at the full conference agenda.

Commercial space launch and recovery operations – Airspace integration

10:00-10:50, Wing Theatre

Delve into the complexities of seamlessly integrating commercial space launch and recovery activities into existing airspace frameworks. Industry experts and innovators will share insights into the technological advancements, regulatory considerations, and collaborative efforts driving the evolution of airspace integration in the rapidly expanding commercial space sector.

Getting ready for the next decade of investments in ATM modernisation

10:30-12:00, Future Skies Theatre

The aviation community is facing a defining moment. All actors in the network are under pressure to deliver on performance. Decision makers are confronted with difficult “trade-offs” almost daily to push the system to its optimum, reducing cost while increasing efficiency, capacity, access and equity, global interoperability, and delivering on sustainability, security, and safety.

At the same time, thanks to programmes such as SESAR and others, the innovation space in the world has never been so active and productive. The availability of this large wealth of innovations challenges decision makers to make strategic decisions on the right combination of solutions to maximise the impact on performance at local or network level.

How can we prepare for the next decade of ATM transformation ?

Planning for the Disruptions: Lessons Learned from Around the World

11:00-11:50, Boeing Theatre

Planned special events and unforeseen disruptions have been, and will continue to be, a part of the air transportation system. ATM resiliency relies on ANSPs and aviation stakeholders anticipating and proactively planning for these disruptions.

In this panel discussion, experienced representatives from CANSO members around the world will share how some of the large-scale special events and disruptions were managed and the lessons learned that can be applied elsewhere.

If AI was already optimising the operations, which ones would you think of and why are we still talking about it?

12:00-12:25, Indra Theatre

What’s coming next – and soon – in the world of aviation is the emergence and proliferation of new entrants and technologies. How ATC facilitates their safe integration is of vital concern. Join us as we offer the perspective of the labour unions representing aviation safety professionals from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The Global Air Traffic Controllers Alliance works to ensure the workforce has a voice and is included in discussions about the future of our airspace and the safe integration of all new entrants and technologies.

Strategies for Talent Attraction: are we doing it right?

12:00-12:50, Frequentis Theatre

This panel explores the effectiveness of current approaches in attracting talent to the aviation industry. We’ll delve into the challenges and opportunities faced by organisations in engaging with new generations, explaining the intricacies of the aviation industry, and motivating aspiring professionals. Our expert panellists will examine existing strategies, share insights, and propose innovative solutions to ensure a diverse, skilled, and motivated workforce for the future of aviation.

The day will conclude with a careers fair tailored for young professionals, providing them with invaluable opportunities to explore career paths, network with industry leaders, and gain insights into the diverse opportunities available in the aviation sector.