EUROCONTROL Network Manager User Forum 2025

This session will provide an overview of:

• the expected challenges for Summer 2024;
• the outlook for traffic and capacity; and
• the main actions that the Network Manager and operational stakeholders will need to take.

We will be examining the impact of the Transition Plans for Major Projects, the need to fully implement the Network Operations Plan commitments and the preparation for major military exercises – as well as reviewing best practices for delivering capacity.

This exciting session will look at the issues for the Network caused by adverse weather. In Summer 2023 some of the most penalizing regulations (in delay terms) were caused by "weather". If we want to improve, we must do something differently – but what? Timelines for regulations, a forecast matrix approach, the "FAA method"– and can technology and AI help? Together with a panel of experts, we will delve into the subject in more detail to find ways of achieving better outcomes!

In this session, we will emphasize the importance of pilots and controllers increasing their use of datalink to support the provision of more airspace capacity in Summer 2024. Designed to boost both safety and productivity through digital messaging between the cockpit and air traffic control, and mandated under EU legislation, we are seeing a growing number of aircraft being equipped. The supporting ground network connections are also nearing completion.

But implementation has not been the smoothest ride, and uptake needs to increase to provide more capacity during the busiest traffic period of the year. Our presenters will share their datalink experience with you – from both pilot and controller perspectives. They will cover its advantages – and what to watch out for in daily usage.

You will also hear about what the plans are for increased digitalisation in the years to come and the increased operational efficiency that the next generation of datalink will bring. But the priority now has to be to implement fully the current generation of datalink!