The ASTAIR project recently had a significant presence at the 36th IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) held in Reykjavík, Iceland, from May 7-9, 2024. The conference, with its focus on integrating sustainable practices into ground handling operations, proved to be a valuable platform for ASTAIR to showcase its advancements and forge new connections within the industry.

ASTAIR Coordinator Mathieu Cousy (ENAC) presented the project during the first technical session, setting the stage for a week of fruitful discussions. Following the presentation, Pascal Hop from Eurocontrol introduced the “sustainable taxiing concept of operations” developed by their task force. This concept, heavily based on the AEON Conops framework, highlighted the strong synergy between AEON and ASTAIR.

Full towing on the horizon

Further bolstering ASTAIR’s vision of increased automation, Sarah Bahlinger of the Royal Schiphol Group confirmed Amsterdam Schiphol Airport’s plans to transition towards full aircraft towing in the coming years, utilizing TaxiBot technology. This significant step aligns perfectly with ASTAIR’s core principles, as the ability for aircraft to effortlessly follow speed constraints is crucial for conflict-free routing, a key

component of ASTAIR’s automated taxiing system. TaxiBot implementation significantly simplifies this aspect, paving the way for a more automated future.

Collaboration and shared challenges

Following Mathieu Cousy’s presentation, Saunon Malekshahi from Moonware presented their ground handling automation solutions. While their focus differs from ASTAIR’s (excluding taxiing), they likely face similar challenges regarding procedures and liability. Establishing a connection with Moonware opens the door for collaboration and knowledge sharing, allowing both projects to navigate these hurdles more effectively.

Overall, discussions with representatives from Airbus and airport operations departments revealed a strong interest in ASTAIR’s ability to enhance predictability, a benefit that resonated more deeply than just the environmental impact (potentially reducing “greenwashing” concerns).

The IGHC proved to be a resounding success for the ASTAIR project. By actively participating and engaging with key industry players, ASTAIR has positioned itself at the forefront of ground handling automation advancements. The conference not only solidified existing concepts but also opened doors for exciting collaborations and the potential integration of groundbreaking technologies. With this momentum, ASTAIR is well-positioned to revolutionize ground handling operations and create a more efficient and sustainable future for air travel.