Aircraft Identification: key to the provision of ATC services

The shortage of available radar (SSR) codes to meet traffic demand has been causing more and more problems for individual ATC units and for the European ATM system as a whole. The shortage results in issues such as code conflicts with potential loss of identification or frequent changes of SSR codes. One of the objectives of the Aircraft Identification Programme is to ensure that aircraft have the same identifying code across the whole continent, irrespective of the local system capabilities. The Programme builds on already existing technologies allowing radar controllers to directly identify aircraft. National experts and stakeholders, under the supervision of a Steering Group of the Air Navigation Services Board (ANSB), are working closely together to develop this programme which could affect Flight Data Processing Systems in the European Region. To reach the target date of 2012, the Programme will implement the operational use of Mode S Elementary Surveillance (ELS) and the Centralised Code Assignment and Management System (CCAMS) within their respective specified airspace regions. To support these developments, a reform of the Originating Region Code Assignment (ORCAM) will also be implemented. Direct recognition of an aircrafts identity on radar displays is a fundamental need of a modern air traffic control system. The Aircraft Identification Programme will ensure that this vital yet complex part of the European Network will work seamlessly across the region, eliminating the shortcomings of the current ORCAM and bringing ELS into full operational use, says Thierry Liabastres, the Chairman of the Programme Steering Group. With challenging yet achievable time scales, it will ensure that the basic building blocks of the air traffic system meet the requirements for safety and efficiency and do not become a barrier to capacity growth, concludes the Programme Manager, Gerard Mc Auley.