The SESAR 2020 project, To Be Free (PJ.06), focused on assessing and validating the benefits of extending free route airspace (FRA) into complex environments and to lower vertical limits. This was achieved through both modelling and real-time simulations.

Benefits

The free route (FR) concept allows airspace users to fly as close as possible to their preferred trajectory, without being constrained by fixed structures or predefined route networks.

Implementing FR is an important step towards achieving a less fragmented European airspace, as set out under the Single European Sky (SES). It enables airspace users to plan and fly routes in line with their business needs or mission requirements.

The introduction of FR has led to a more seamless airspace, supporting more efficient flights and reducing costs for airspace users. These savings can contribute to lower travel costs, fostering greater personal mobility and trade.

In addition, extending FRA helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions by allowing more fuel-efficient trajectories, thereby supporting the transition to a greener airspace.

Within PJ.06, the project partners FR airspace both the benefits for airspace users and the impacts on air traffic management of extending FRA into complex environments and lower vertical limits. The resulting changes in traffic flows, and the need to balance flight efficiency with capacity, were key aspects of this work.