A “disruptive” approach to air traffic management

A better connection between the aircraft and ground systems in ATM is seen as the key that will unlock greater efficiency in our skies. The SAPIENT project looked at innovative applications in communications, navigation, surveillance (CNS), focusing on improvements to air-ground datalinks. It also looked at how to incorporate remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) flying beyond line of sight missions.

The research looked at the integration of 4D trajectory estimates with data obtained through the dynamic and accurate monitoring and measuring of the  performance of air-ground datalink communications between the aircraft transceivers and ground infrastructure.

The concept enables air and ground datalink equipment to monitor, process and exchange communication performance along a flight path, in order to confirm data link settings or report any possible anomalies that need to be managed in advance.

The SAPIENT solution provides a new innovative communication application in the field of the future CNS:ATM system

Greater operational and cost efficiency is expected since the solution have reduced the need for voice communications as well as lower the use of spectrum.

Benefits

• Improved predictability of data link performance 
• Decreased level of air-ground communication issues 
• Improved efficiency of ATM services delivery