Airspace and navigation advances must continue despite traffic decline

Issue
The United States and Europe are grappling with airspace and congestion issues that threaten to choke their respective aviation industries. NextGen (U.S.) and SESAR (Europe) are aimed at addressing airspace, navigation technology and reducing fuel consumption and harmful emissions. The success of both programs depends on funding and commitment by all stakeholders in the aviation industry.

Background
In Europe, the Single European Sky ATM Research (SESAR) initiative augments the Single European Sky ruling that essentially dismantles current aviation borders over the continent. The program aims to create a more efficient, safe, environmentally-sustainable and cost-effective network. The initiative is entering the development stage which will continue into 2014, with 2020 being the target year for full deployment. The projected cost is €2.1 billion.

Across the Atlantic, the efforts in the United States, collectively known as NetGen (Next Generation), have been languishing under a shroud of uncertainty, mostly about funding. The NextGen program includes a combination of space and ground based satellite technology to guide aircraft and improve safety from the ground to the air. The effort also calls for the redesign of airspace and the upgrading of air traffic control equipment. The U.S. Congress has yet to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) funds beyond March of 2009.

The importance to our members
IAPA keeps a close watch on issues regarding airline delays and the numerous causes and proposed solutions. Airport and airspace congestion issues, along with environmental concerns, are vital to our members' comfort, health and safety. Having completed its participation on a recent DOT Task Force on Tarmac Delays, IAPA has a vested interest in efforts to mitigate passenger discomfort and inconvenience during lengthy delays. In 2009, IAPA will join efforts by other organizations to support implementation of NextGen (U.S.) and SESAR (Europe) technology aimed at revamping airspace, reducing flight delays, upgrading equipment and reducing emissions.

IAPA's position
IAPA will push for the implementation of all initiatives designed to create safer, more efficient and environmentally sustainable air traffic systems. In Europe, this means full speed ahead with SESAR and an alignment with IATA and other organizations that support such long-overdue improvements. In the United States, we will push for proper training and staffing for the air traffic control centers and full funding for the FAA to set the nation on a course toward a reasonably speedy implementation of NextGen technology.

Status
The SESAR program is finalizing its two-year definition phase, essentially a feasibility study. The next phase will cover objectives up to the year 2020 and a program of work for the first 6 years of the Development Phase. In the United States, an executive order is in place for an advisory committee on aviation and NextGen to be in place by May, 2009. IAPA will continue to follow the progress of these initiatives throughout 2009.

Updated: 17 December 2008