Digital Solutions and Technology focus at the CANSO Asia Pacific Conference 2024 in Chengdu, China

Asia Pacific Conference 2024 was held in Chengdu, China, this week (8-11 July), kindly hosted by the Air Traffic Management Bureau, CAAC (ATMB). Over 200 leaders from across the region’s aviation industry have gathered for this year’s conference, which focused on taking bold actions for regional air traffic management (ATM) through digital solutions.

Following successful discussions at last year’s CANSO Asia Pacific Conference in Bali, Indonesia, the 2024 event built on recommendations from the Asia Pacific ATM White Paper, published earlier this year, which aims to help CANSO’s Asia Pacific Full Members accelerate ATM modernisation by leveraging digital solutions and new opportunities for collaboration.

In his opening remarks, Simon Hocquard, CANSO Director General, stated: “We gather here in Chengdu on the cusp of a new era for aviation. The Asia-Pacific region has long been a crucible of forward-thinking and growth. Together we are creating a promising pathway for ATM where advancements in digitalisation will pave the way for the safe and seamless integration of new vehicles, as well as enabling increased productivity, interoperability, and innovative growth for our industry."

Mr. Ma Bing, Deputy Director General of the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), pointed out in his speech that since its establishment, CANSO has always been committed to improving the safety and efficiency of global air traffic control services. Together with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), it has played an important role in promoting global civil aviation exchanges and mutual trust, innovation, and development. It is an important platform for exchanges and cooperation in the field of international air traffic control.

Mr. Wen Xuezheng, Deputy Director General of the Air Traffic Administration Bureau of the CAAC, stated that since joining CANSO, CAAC has adhered to openness and cooperation. This conference unites ATC experts from the Asia-Pacific region and beyond to discuss cutting-edge technology trends and share operational best practices on topics like the Asia-Pacific ATC White Paper and digital solutions.

The international civil aviation industry highly recognises China's selection to host this conference. Over the past 40 years, China has become the second-largest air transportation market globally. It has actively engaged in international cooperation, promoted the "Belt and Road" air connectivity, and strengthened technical exchanges with neighbouring countries. Notable advancements include the ARJ21 and C919 aircraft, and the integration of the Beidou system into ICAO standards.

From July 8 to 9, the CANSO Asia-Pacific Operation Working Group Meeting and Safety Working Group Meeting were held respectively. More than 120 leaders and experts from ATC-related enterprises and institutions participated in the meetings and had enthusiastic discussions, which was the largest number of such meetings in the past years.