Variable Division Flight Level to increase efficiency in MUAC airspace

In order to manage air traffic more dynamically and better meet fluctuating air traffic flows, a variable Division Flight Level (vDFL) has been introduced today in the Eastern part of the airspace managed by the Maastricht Upper Area Control Centre (MUAC).

This concept, which enables a flexible distribution of traffic between upper and lower sectors (from 24,500 feet to UNL), is aimed at increasing efficiency. It is unique in Europe and is a first step towards the introduction of the dynamic sectorisation concept of the Single European Sky ATM Research (SESAR).

The division flight level between the upper and lower sectors was previously fixed at 33,500 feet. With the introduction of vDFL, it is now possible to change dynamically the traffic volume of the respective upper or lower sectors and therefore maintain optimal punctuality. The advanced ATC system in place at MUAC is capable of supporting this instant restructuring of sectors, for example by lowering or raising the division flight level in order to match changing traffic patterns.

One of the key elements of the vDFL concept is dynamic frequency management. Level bands of sectors/airspace blocks can be changed instantly, offering a variety of division flight levels even within the different sub-sectors of a sector group.

Initially introduced in the so-called Hannover Sector Group (covering most of the North-Western part of Germany), the vDFL concept will gradually be deployed across the rest of the MUAC airspace (above the Benelux countries). In the long term, it will also be possible to introduce a similar vDFL concept between upper and lower air traffic control facilities within FABEC, increasing ATM performance still further.