Airlines are more likely to receive earlier direct routeings and requested levels, cruising level adjustments at the most optimal times (as pilots do not need to request them), and fewer speed restrictions on conversion thanks to the controller’s knowledge of their planned speed.
Enhanced safety
Thanks to the ADS-C information, the ground system can automatically check the trajectories and flag discrepancies, saving time on the radio frequency and helping to reduce the likelihood of a mistake. Downlinked routes are automatically checked against what is expected on the ground side, and in the event of discrepancy, a 2D discrepancy warning is displayed. This provides protection against certain human errors, like misinterpretation of a route clearance.
FMS loadable complex clearances have more clarity, which helps reduce human error.
Future plans include medium-term conflict detection which will also be fed with ADS-C values for improved safety.
Reduced fuel consumption
ADS-C reduces fuel consumption by helping controllers chose the most efficient route, providing information (on request) of the earliest time over a fix. This can help the aircraft stay on a direct track even if a military area becomes active in the meantime. System support showing exit times from military areas, top of descent displays, and descend when ready CPDLC clearances can help aircraft fly the shortest, greenest and most efficient route for as long as possible.
Top of climb displays allow controllers to better estimate climb performance, possibly resulting in earlier direct routeings, fewer miles flown and earlier clearances to the requested level.
Top of descent displays enable aircraft to start their descent later than usual, increasing the number of minutes spent at the cruising level and (depending on the traffic), resulting in more continuous descents.
Cross point at time CPDLC clearances could improve initial sequencing (cross-border arrival management or XMAN), reducing fuel consumption.
Better predictions of runway occupancy time
The data collected by ADS-C helps improve the cross-border arrival management (XMAN) algorithm for high-density aerodromes, improving the accuracy of time-over-point and speeds.
Increased accuracy of time-over-point and speeds, and extended XMAN and AMAN operations provide much higher en-route delay absorptions whilst at the same time reducing fuel usage and CO2 emissions.
Greater synergies between aircraft operators and air traffic control
As the aircraft intent is automatically downlinked to the MUAC system, fewer requests and interventions are needed by the pilot, resulting in more efficient and seamless communication.
Cruising level adjustments are sent automatically, with no need for the pilots to request them.
