SESAR selects Triagnosys to head Next Generaration ATM Communications Technology Study

The Wireless Communication Study (WiComS) consortium was selected by the SESAR Joint Undertaking for its expertise in ATM operations, aeronautical regulation and spectrum management, competence in simulation and test-bed performance assessment for future ATM systems, and aeronautical telecommunications systems, as well as its experience in the management and delivery of EC and ESA projects. Other members are Audens ACT, Rainer J Koll Consulting and ATMOSPHERE. According to Patrick Ky, Executive Director of SESAR, current ATM communications are no longer adequate. Addressing the European Parliament recently, he said, Air Traffic Control still uses basic technologies like VHF radio or terrestrial navigation aids, which were developed 50 or 60 years ago. We are now reaching a stage where these basic technologies cannot support the required air transport transformation. The first element of WiComS remit is to refine the future need for communications services for all phases of the flight, in support of the future SESAR Concept of Operations (ConOps). The second is to verify that the technologies currently identified to support the multi-link concept namely direct air-to-ground and air-to-air connections, satellite-based connectivity, and the ground-based airport segment are the correct ones and the third, to identify any other technologies that could be appropriate. The final stage is to investigate potential suppliers, both from the aviation sector and outside. At the launch of WiComS, Peter Hotham, SESARs Chief of Technology and Innovation, said, WiComS is essentially a critical analysis and an independent validation of where the SESAR community stands in terms of future ATM wireless communications. In this sense it is a de-risking exercise before launching further key industrial developments. Markus Werner, Managing Director of TriaGnoSys, said, We have a proven track record in aeronautical communications system engineering, and product and services development, as well as the ability to complete complex research projects and focussed consulting studies, such as WiComS, on time and on budget. The work on WiComS started in January 2010 and will be concluded in September, with the first element being delivered in April.