First of a new generation of European air traffic control centres now operational

Citation

(2004), "First of a new generation of European air traffic control centres now operational", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 76 No. 6. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.2004.12776fab.009

First of a new generation of European air traffic control centres now operational

First of a new generation of European air traffic control centres now operational

Keywords: Air traffic control, Aircraft

Minister for Transport, Seamus Brennan, T.D., recently launched the Irish Aviation Authority's (IAA) new Euro83 m Shannon Air Traffic Management (ATM) system and Centre.

Shannon Air Traffic Controllers are now using the new system to manage the huge fleet of over 1,200 large jet aircraft, which daily fly through Irish airspace. This adds up to nearly 400,000 transatlantic crossings every year, carrying in the region of 50 m passengers.

The new system expands the capacity of the Irish Air Traffic Control (ATC) system and enables Irish controllers to handle expected higher traffic volumes. From 2006, Shannon controllers will handle 90 per cent of all traffic between Europe and North America.

The new ATM system, known as CAIRDE 2000, is part of the IAA's Euro115 m national programme to provide Ireland's airspace with one of the most advanced computerised radar and flight planning management systems in Europe.

Minister for Transport, Seamus Brennan, T.D., said: “CAIRDE 2000 strengthens the IAA's position as an international air navigation services provider. The aviation industry is undergoing a period of immense change. The need for modern, reliable and integrated ATC systems is now greater than ever. I commend the IAA on this important achievement”.

The Minister concluded by adding; “CAIRDE 2000 will play a pivotal role in securing the IAA's future in the new aviation environment of the Single European Sky”.

CAIRDE 2000 was supplied by French air traffic equipment provider, Thales ATM. The system has advanced safety functionalities, e.g. short- and medium-term conflict alerts to controllers and fully complies with the advanced technical standards set by Eurocontrol (the European Organisation for the safety of Air Navigation).

Chairman of the IAA, Donal Geaney, commented: “With our successful new national ATM system – CAIRDE 2000 – we are well placed to significantly increase productivity and meet the challenge to handle growing traffic more effectively and efficiently. It is vital for us and, more importantly, for our airline customers and their passengers, that we provide the highest grade service at the most competitive prices. The ATM system is an essential strategic tool for the IAA in meeting its safety and service objectives. Uniquely in Europe, we have delivered this ATM system, operating to full specifications, on time and within budget”.

The IAA employs almost 350 people in the Shannon region. These include air traffic controllers, radio officers, engineers and the necessary administration staff.

Shannon airspace is strategically placed on the main air routes between Europe and North America. In January 2005, Shannon controlled airspace will increase by nearly 100,000 km² to almost 500,000 km² following an agreement between the Irish and British Departments of Transport. From 2006, Shannon controllers will handle 90 per cent of all traffic between Europe and North America. This will give major benefit to airlines through more flexible routing, shorter routes, less fuel-burn and reduced delay costs.

Airlines pay the IAA for air traffic control and communications services and this accounts for over 80 per cent of the IAA's revenue. The IAA is internationally recognised as one of the most efficient air navigation service providers in Europe.

For further details, contact: Irish Aviation Authority. Tel: +(0) 87 647 4079; E-mail: lilian.cassin@iaa.ie