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A major step forward for European ATM: EUROCONTROL goes operational with the first release of iNM, our integrated Network Management programme

iNM Digital Platform - new products

Yesterday evening the EUROCONTROL Network Manager took a major step forward in its digital transformation programme with the entry into operations of the first release (Wave O) of iNM, our integrated Network Management programme

Wave O delivers:

  • a brand-new digital platform, the foundation of our new operational systems
  • 3 replatformed key Digital Products: the Code Allocation List (CAL), the Route Availability Document (RAD) and the Dynamic Network Plan (the DNP).

This release marks the first wave of iNM deliverables following the opening of our new NM Operational Centre (NMOC) at the end of October 2023. EUROCONTROL’s iNM programme represents an ambitious digital transformation designed to replace our legacy operational systems with advanced digital products, modernising European air traffic management (ATM) to deal with the capacity challenge by enhancing the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of the European aviation network.
 

“Yesterday’s release of iNM, our integrated Network Management programme, puts our first iNM deliverables into operations –on time, on scope and on budget, as we look to transform how we manage the European air traffic network by 2030. The Digital Platform is the backbone of iNM, and the three Digital Products – the Code Allocation List, Route Availability Document and Dynamic Network Plan – that have been released with it represent a significant first step in connecting our new digital products to aviation stakeholders in a harmonised, efficient and secure way.”

Wave O is EUROCONTROL’s first-ever deployment in Microsoft Azure cloud services, providing an improved ability to scale resources based on demand, with increased resilience and robust security for mission-critical applications and services. One of the key changes for users is that they will access all Digital Products via the Digital Platform using a Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) that is user-friendly, convenient, less reliant on IT support, and contributes to increased security and resilience.

The three replatformed Digital Products will optimise performance, increase resilience and enable innovation in an evolving digital landscape.

RAD – Route Availability Document

EUROCONTROL compiles the data for the production and management of RAD, the Route Availability Document. RAD provides detailed information about the policies, procedures and description for route and traffic orientation, the availability of specific air routes and associated restrictions, ensuring that dispatchers, air traffic controllers and pilots have access to up-to-date and accurate routing options.

Code Allocation List

EUROCONTROL is responsible for the Code Allocation List (CAL) which ensures unique Secondary Surveillance Radar (SSR) code assignments within specific regions to avoid conflicts during flight transitions. CAL avoids duplications and supports efficient flight operations by providing a clear structure for SSR code usage and coordination across civil and military airspace users.  EUROCONTROL maintains and publishes the CAL on behalf of the EUR/NAT Office of ICAO as an attachment to EUR Doc 023.

Dynamic Network Plan

The Dynamic Network Plan (DNP) Editor is a critical tool used to support the EUROCONTROL NMOC in providing an overview of the network situation for the following day. It enables the creation of a detailed plan, which includes regulations, weather updates, and any significant events that may impact operations. This new release of the DNP Editor consolidates all relevant information into a single platform, reducing manual efforts and improving coordination between teams. It also comes with an improved interface, a search bar and an accordion menu, making navigation easier and more intuitive.

Next steps

With Wave O complete, work moves to Waves 1 and 2.0, with the first key date the planned starting of eEAD shadow operations on 29 November. The operational start of a simplified version of eEAD, with the essential features necessary to meet user needs (OPS Minimum Viable Product), is planned for 15 May 2025. The remaining eEAD features will be deployed in Wave 2.2 at the end of 2025.

Towards the end of the decade, the ten-year iNM programme is envisaged to be complete, and will have ensured the incremental renewal of all the EUROCONTROL NM’s main operational systems. The new digital architecture will harness the power of innovation, and additionally enable NM to deliver ever more integrated business services and products to its stakeholders.

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