Leading air transport technology firm, SITA has “launched an innovative new global messaging solution which will help redefine the way ATC communications works.” The new platform ‘SITA ATC Connect’ allows “the sharing of flight information with air navigation service providers (ANSPs) quickly and securely worldwide. It provides streamlined communications to simplify the exchange of data and ensure flight operations run as smoothly and efficiently as possible”, according to SITA
In addition, SITA said the new platform offers “a single, easy-to-use global solution for airlines, airports and ground handlers to exchange flight operational messages with ANSPs. This can include flight plans, NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen) that alert pilots of potential hazards along a flight route or at a location that could affect their flight, and other essential advisories.”
SITA says “SITA ATC Connect is easily integrated, fully supporting the move from legacy Aeronautical Fixed Telecommunication Networks (AFTNs) to modern ATS (Air Traffic Services) Messaging Handling Systems (AMHS). With full inter-operability, it allows service providers to share large file messages and images with enhanced features for rich data exchange.”
Martin Smillie, Senior Vice President for SITA Communications and Data Exchange (CDE) said: “SITA ATC Connect automatically adapts to different air navigation communities worldwide with an innovative, single global communication connection that is both quick and secure. This is truly the future of ATC messaging, improving efficiency and allowing the industry to offer reliable and on-time operations.”
SITA says its ATC Connect platform provides “airlines, airports and ANSP customers with an easy-to-use system that provides direct access to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) AMHS ATC for a single point of transmission for flight plans and meteorological data, avoiding intermediary points to quickly secure real-time acknowledgements and responses.”
SITA says the solution has “a built-in back-up connection for uninterrupted service, with streamlined workflows for smoother daily operations that deliver time and resource savings through automation and simplified processes. It can also automatically reroute traffic to avoid operational disruptions or delays, while also covering both ICAO and IATA (International Air Transport Association) connectivity protocols and message formats for full compatibility and geographic coverage.”