Air transport technology specialist, SITA, has launched a new global messaging solution which will help change the way ATC communications – that allows the sharing of flight information with air navigation service providers (ANSPs) quickly and securely worldwide – works.
The new messaging platform offers a single, easy-to-use global solution for airlines, airports and ground handlers to exchange flight operational messages with ANSPs.
This can include flight plans, NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen) that alert pilots of potential hazards along a flight route or at a location that could affect their flight, and other essential advisories.
SITA ATC Connect is easily integrated, fully supporting the move from legacy Aeronautical Fixed Telecommunication Networks (AFTNs) to modern ATS (Air Traffic Services) Messaging Handling Systems (AMHS).
With full inter-operability, it allows service providers to share large file messages and images with enhanced features for rich data exchange.
Airlines, airports and ground handlers exchange many messages with air navigation service providers for day-to-day flight operations.
Customers using SITA ATC Connect enjoy seamless communications throughout the flight operations process while the solution makes all necessary conversions between AFTN and AMHS systems, adapting automatically to the required ANSP environment.
SITA ATC Connect provides airlines, airports and ANSP customers with an easy-to-use system that provides direct access to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) AMHS ATC for a single point of transmission for flight plans and meteorological data, avoiding intermediary points to quickly secure real-time acknowledgements and responses.
The solution has a built-in back-up connection for uninterrupted service, with streamlined workflows for smoother daily operations that deliver time and resource savings through automation and simplified processes.
It can also automatically reroute traffic to avoid operational disruptions or delays, while also covering both ICAO and IATA connectivity protocols and message formats for full compatibility and geographic coverage.
Martin Smillie, senior vice president for SITA Communications and Data Exchange (CDE), said: “The mix of legacy and modern air traffic systems in different markets globally add unnecessary complexity and delays to air navigation.
“SITA ATC Connect automatically adapts to different air navigation communities worldwide with an innovative, single global communication connection that is both quick and secure. This is truly the future of ATC messaging, improving efficiency and allowing the industry to offer reliable and on-time operations.”
