Predicting the weather relies on timely and accurate forecasts, which is easier said than done given how quickly the conditions can evolve. A newly-launched SESAR project, FMP-MET, will look at how to better predict and assess the impact of the weather on air traffic operations, as Alfonso Valenzuela, one of the principal researchers in the project explains in this interview.

There can be no denying that the Coronavirus pandemic has changed aviation fundamentally. Yet, to date, the focus has been on surviving the crisis and the sudden plunge in traffic. However, as the situation stabilises it is time to turn to thinking through the deeper implications for European aviation. The SESAR JU is committed to driving that conversation. Over the course of July, it convened a series of senior leaders of the industry to discuss these issues.

A draft Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (SRIA) has been published, detailing the research and innovation roadmaps to achieve the Digital European Sky, matching the ambitions of the ‘European Green Deal’ and the ‘Europe fit for the digital age’ initiative. Stakeholders have until 20 August to share their feedback on the draft SRIA!

The summary European ATM Master Plan Executive View is now available in all of the ICAO languages. The plan is instrumental for ensuring global harmonisation and interoperability, in support of the Global Air Navigation Plan (GANP) of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

SESAR JU members recently completed testing of a system that will allow more seamless flight data exchange between air traffic control centres across Europe. The results of the ground-to-ground interoperability (IOP) project are supporting efforts to improve the overall predictability of air traffic as well as the long-term sustainability of aviation.

The European Commission is currently working on a comprehensive Strategy for a Sustainable and Smart Mobility and has launched a public consultation on the future of transport to allow stakeholders and citizens to comment and identify their priorities. The consultation will run until 23 September.

The SESAR Innovation Days is switching to a digital format! Stay tuned for details of the new approach in coming weeks. Make sure that you are part of the event, by submitting an application to present a paper, poster or candidacy for the next SESAR Young Scientist Award!

The SESAR JU, in collaboration with ACI Europe, has launched the Digital Transformation Award, to recognise a European airport that has embraced digitalisation, adopting innovative technologies and procedures to improve the safety, capacity, efficiency and environmental footprint of its airside operations. The winner will be announced during the 30th ACI Europe Annual General Assembly.

The second summer school organised by Engage, the SESAR KTN, will be held as a virtual event on 21-25 September 2020. The programme includes advanced tutorials on ATM, research methods, a range of current PhD topics, catalyst fund project results, stakeholder insights, and a strong selection of in-depth presentations from industry.
Registration is now open but places are limited.