The pioneering air traffic control simulations were carried out in NATS’ training college in Fareham, Hampshire. Leading the way in air traffic control simulations, the UK has ushered in a new era of environmentally conscious aviation through its pioneering efforts in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). These simulations showcase the seamless integration of eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing) aircraft, commonly known as flying taxis, with traditional air traffic, marking a significant stride towards a greener future in aviation.
Pioneering air traffic control simulations pave the way for eVTOL operations
The recent simulations represent a significant achievement for the Advanced Mobility Ecosystem Consortium, a collaborative effort among leading aviation, technology, and transport organizations. This consortium, funded jointly by UK Research and Innovation as part of the Future Flight Challenge program, features key contributors such as Vertical Aerospace, Virgin Atlantic, AtkinsRéalis, Skyports, NATS, Connected Places Catapult, Cranfield University, and WMG – University of Warwick.
These tests mark a crucial milestone in demonstrating the commercial and operational feasibility of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). They serve as a preparatory phase for the consortium’s upcoming real-world demonstration flight scheduled for late 2024, setting the stage for the integration of a new generation of electric aircraft into mainstream airspace.
NATS, the air traffic control service, effectively conducted simulations of eVTOL flights originating from Bristol Airport, traversing the airspace around Farnborough Airport, and concluding at London City Airport. Notably, these flights seamlessly coexisted with traditional air traffic, operating within controlled airspace without causing any disruption to conventional operations.
The pioneering air traffic control simulations became a reality through the integration of cutting-edge prototype technologies and the establishment of a novel ‘Airspace Manager’ function.
According to NATS’ envisioned operational framework, each eVTOL operator would submit their flight plans through an application, subject to approval or necessary adjustments. Prior to takeoff, the entire flight would undergo thorough deconfliction from other aircraft, managed by the ‘Airspace Manager’ function, which would monitor the airspace from a digital ‘master control room.’
In this proposed concept, direct voice communication between eVTOL pilots and air traffic control would only be necessary in exceptional cases. While a human fulfilled the Airspace Manager function during the simulations, there is potential for it to be largely automated in the future.
NATS contends that this suggested concept achieves the optimal equilibrium by ensuring safety and granting airspace access to new users without increasing the workload for air traffic controllers or pilots.
Richard Ellis, New Airspace Users Director at NATS, said: “We are excited to demonstrate this world leading capability showcasing how Advanced Air Mobility vehicles can safely and digitally integrate at scale within the existing crewed operations at major airports. These simulations are a big step forward and we look forward to making it a reality in the near future.”
Anna Postma-Kurlanc, NATS Project Lead, added: “Our skies are already busy, so we are going to have to find new, innovative ways of managing and integrating this new generation of electric aircraft. Safety is always going to be our first priority, and the airspace manager function and new technologies we’re developing as a conduit between the eVTOL operators and traditional air traffic control, is going to be vital.
“We know how important it is to decarbonise aviation, and we believe what we’ve done here sets a very strong foundation upon which we can continue to build in the coming years.”
James Richmond, Head of Advanced Air Mobility at consortium leaders AtkinsRéalis said: “These simulations are a critical milestone on our roadmap because they prepare us for the live demonstrations we plan to conduct in late 2024. The consortium is showing how different stakeholders across the industry need to collaborate to create a future aviation ecosystem that adapts to changing passenger behaviour and maintains the UK’s leading position in the future of aviation.”
