At Aerospace Tech Week, Joel Klooster, SVP at Viasat gave his analysis of the industry’s communications infrastructure. The conversation looked at how modernised connectivity can support the industry’s future, especially with air traffic predicted to double within 20 years.
Reflecting on the state of the current communications infrastructure, Klooster explained that foundational technologies were developed and put in place over the last five years. However, the focus must now be on accelerating the pace of adoption. Here, Klooster gave the examples of well developed cybersecurity measures, and the shift from legacy systems like AARS to modern, IP-based protocols like the Aeronautical Telecommunications Network (ATN).
A key focus of the discussion was the movement towards data link communications, supporting real-time transmission of data enhancing situational awareness for both pilots and air traffic controllers. The potential efficiency and accuracy gains of this technology will be fundamental in managing growing air traffic volumes while improving current safety standards through a seamless flow of information:
“We need to maintain and improve the levels of safety […] and that requires situational awareness improvement and information sharing between the pilot and the air traffic controller, making sure they have the exact same information and that this can be exchanged in a timely manner. It can just be loaded directly into the flight management computer that’s connected to the autopilot and flying that aircraft.”
The five-minute discussion also tapped into artificial intelligence (AI) and the safe integration of emerging technologies to advance the industry. Watch the full interview below.
Questions asked include:
- What changes need to happen to the connectivity infrastructure to allow next generation aircraft to be integrated into the airspace with minimal disruption?
- How can higher capacity communications drive operational efficiency in ATM, especially as the industry prepares for the number of aircraft in operation to grow rapidly?
- Where are we seeing AI and other emerging tech make the greatest difference in connectivity, and how can we ensure its integration enhances safety rather than compromises it?
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For more from ATW Europe see:
- Airbus: Three transformative tech breakthroughs to watch
- MD, Munich Aerospace: Flight ops, supply chain, and quantum
- Ryanair COO: “ATC will be a shambles again – here’s why”