The “D” architecture in ATM virtual centre platforms consists of ATM data service providers (ADSPs) delivering ATM services to connected air traffic service units (ATSUs). In the event of a failure, ATSUs can switch the provision of data between ADSPs. In contingency situations, ATSUs can therefore maintain safe ATC service provision by making use of the same ATM services from an unaffected ADSP.

This solution considers three different platform locations for validating the VC concept.

• The first platform, located in Spain, will make use of the Madrid and Barcelona flight information regions (FIRs). ATSUs in both regions will be capable of taking responsibility for ATC services in the other FIR.

• The second and third platforms, located in Poland and Lithuania, will support the validation of airspace delegation exercises between PANSA, the Polish ANSP, and ON, the Lithuanian ANSP. Delegation of ATC services in the corresponding airspaces will be performed in both directions, demonstrating the resilience and interoperability of this solution.

• Additionally, contingency exercises using the “D” architecture will involve remotely delivered ADSP services for Ukrainian airspace, whereby the ATSU in Ukraine is supported in a contingency situation by a remote ATSU. Two validation exercises will be carried out for this use case: one with cross-border delegation from Ukraine to Poland, and the other from Ukraine to Lithuania.

The “D” VC platform architecture has previously been validated in the PJ.10-W2-93B solution and will also be validated under the scope of the iSNAP project. The objective of this solution is to reach the maturity of an industrialised product.

In line with the initiatives introduced by EU Regulation 2019/317, the current ATSU charging methodology may need to be updated to support the implementation of this VC architecture.

Certification of the ADSP provider could be required to maintain current safety levels and ensure interoperability across European countries.

BENEFITS

• Improved cost-efficiency of ATM platforms

• Increased flexibility and operational efficiency

• Enhanced resilience of services provided to ATSUs

• More efficient handover of traffic and increased safety