In December 2019, MUAC introduced free route airspace around-the-clock enabling airspace users to select preferred routes between entry and exit points, two years’ ahead of the European deadline. Cross-border options were also extended with Germany and the Danish-Swedish functional airspace block. Before the pandemic environmental benefits of free route airspace in the MUAC area were estimated at 40 tonnes of fuel and 150 tonnes CO2 emissions saved per day if all flights take advantage of the more flexible route structure. Additionally, airspace demand becomes more predictable and the remaining route network is being optimised to provide vertical connectivity between the free route zone and the lower airspace.
Minimising environmental impact is high on Santurbano’s policy agenda. A new initiative launched in April 2020 plans to validate ways of avoiding contrails using operational methods. The Contrail Avoidance Project examines a concept highlighted in previous studies showing that aircraft can be rerouted around atmospheric conditions which are conducive to contrails. Using predictions about atmospheric conditions, flights will be using more efficient profiles on the basis of weather forecasts to prevent contrails. The aim is to minimise intervention and maximise the positive impact, starting with validation of the whole process as well as individual components.
As a very small percentage of flights are responsible for most of the climate impact of contrails, the research examines whether reduced warming from contrails outweighs the extra fuel burn generated by a small number of diversions. The project will include live trials accompanied by analysis of satellite images to examine the results. MUAC expects the project to make a significant contribution to the sustainability of the industry by reducing its ecological impact.
The environment presents a tough challenge, says Santurbano, who also provides leadership to the Functional Airspace Block Europe Central (FABEC) Environment Standing Committee in his role as CEO Champion.
“Our environmental footprint has to be as good as possible. We also need to be aware of the financial crisis for the airlines. Our focus has to be on realistic, feasible projects generating tangible benefits at the earliest opportunity.”
With innovation at the heart of MUAC operations, this period of low traffic demand provides an ideal opportunity to develop new solutions for the challenges ahead.
“Our controllers do more than operate the airspace; they are multi-tasking and innovative, and they have a unique expertise. Our engineers hold the system’s intellectual property. We have a significant advantage and we are using this time intelligently.”