Expected outcomes

This outcome is linked to the demonstration of the operational and environmental benefits of integrating Automatic Dependent Surveillance – Contract (ADS-C) data into ATM and ATC systems and procedures. It aims to improve the environmental efficiency (reducing noise and CO2 emissions) of the arrivals, fostering a more sustainable aviation through several measures supported by ADS-C information exchanges. Such measures include, for example:

  • Enhanced coordination between En Route Area Control Center (ACCs), Extended Terminal Manoeuvering Area (E-TMAs) and Terminal Manoeuvering Area (TMAs).
  • Higher transfer Flight Levels.
  • Descent clearance from cruise as close as possible to the aircraft preferred Top of Descent (ToD).
  • More efficient climb or descent profile based on the expected 4D trajectory.

Concepts will be demonstrated to realize the above measures by different means; these include navigational procedures, adapted operational concepts, adjustment of airspace geometries, and improved flight planning scenarios. Operational Demonstrations will take place in DSNA, ENAV, PANSA PEGASUS_21 and PANSA P_21/iTEC environments, and DFS Area of Responsibility.

Leader: DSNA

Beneficiaries: Air France, Deep Blue, DFS, ENAV, LEONARDO, Lufthansa, PANSA, Transavia.

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    This outcome deals with green surface operations management. It aims to demonstrate operational aspects of available green and (smart) technologies to increase sustainability while optimising operations at medium and large European airports. 

    Selected operational demonstrations will be performed in live operational environments, such as Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, Paris Orly or other appropriate airport locations (RSG environment, Universal Airport Environment). The demos will put to the test the concepts, services, technologies, and standards, for example:

    • Sustainable Taxiing with Zero Emission propulsion, Sustainable Taxiing Operation for Wide Body, Green Taxiing management tools.
    • Green Taxiing: the demonstration reduction of fuel burn and CO2 emissions during taxiing through optimization of taxiing trajectories on the ground.
    • Automated Aircraft Parking Operations.
    • Green Apron Management for more predictable, efficient and greener turnaround operations. 
    • Pilot Support tools for maximum application of Single Engine Taxi-Out.

    Solutions will be demonstrated and will undergo initial scale up; then, to pave the way for large-scale implementation across Europe, results will be shared with sector partners. These results can include suggested standard operational procedures; operational strategies to optimise operations and mitigate environmental impact; suggestions for regulations; impact reporting; examples of certification schemes. Procedural changes between key stakeholders, including material that could form the basis for standardisation and regulatory development, will be addressed to allow this approach to scale up as standard operation.

    Leader: SNBV

    Beneficiaries: ADP, Air France, ALTYS, EUROCONTROL, Transavia.

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      This outcome is linked to the operational flight demonstration of greener approaches; these include optimisation of TMA design and descent approach profiles through AI-based analysis and onboard cockpit FMS enhancements, which can facilitate  Continuous Descent Operations (CDO). The scope of operational demonstrations also address Optimised approach spacing and Runway Delivery (ORD) tool for Controllers integrating wind aloft, as well as the use of RNP-AR procedure and increased second glideslope (ISGS) solutions. The demonstration will involve flights with commercial aircraft at several major European airports (Brussels, Istanbul,  Warsaw, Calvi, and major TMAs in Europe such as Frankfurt or Dusseldorf), with required navigation performance (RNP) approaches and GNSS navigation technology when available.

      The flight trials will address the optimisation of final approach, landing, and runway use. They will showcase and evaluate the environmental benefits in terms of increased operational and flight efficiency, resulting in lower emissions, together with local noise impact reduction and increased accessibility. A liaison with authorities and standardisation bodies is also foreseen to initiate the evolution of standards and regulatory requirements . 

      The operational solution of more noise-efficient approaches using Increased Second Glide Slope (ISGS) will be evaluated at Brussels airport (EBBR). The runway occupancy time spacing based on categories (ROCAT) is foreseen at Istanbul (LTFM), while the Optimised Runway Delivery (ORD) tool supporting mixed mode runway operations will take place at Warsaw airport (EPWA). Operational demonstrations of advanced approaches based on RNP AR will take place at Calvi – Sainte-Catherine (LFKC) and Saint-Nazaire Montoir (LFRZ) airports, while the optimised TMA design and arrival route descent profiles will be conducted for 3 main German TMA: Francfort, Dusseldorf and Cologne Bonn. The project will also engage with EASA and ICAO regarding the regulatory framework, developing guidelines, and promoting the solutions benefits, in view facilitating the deployment of these operational improvements.

      Leader: EUROCONTROL

      Beneficiaries: Airbus, Air France, BAC, DHMI, Easyjet, EPWA, IGA, Skeyes, Turkish Airlines.

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        This outcome deals with aircraft trajectory optimization through the implementation of solutions at EUROCONTROL/Network Manager (NM) and local levels. allowing AUs to file more efficient trajectories according to the available ATM improvements. It will address operational improvements in NM system that will become by default available to all stakeholders using NM system. In addition, the new NM capabilities will offer opportunities to stakeholders aiming to improve their local systems interoperable with NM via B2B services.

        In order to deliver this outcomes, HERON will work to: refine the Dynamic Rad concept, allowing to foster greener plannable trajectories; adapt the current collaborative advanced planning tools (such as the ​Flight & Flow Information for a Collaborative Environment – FF-ICE), allowing network and cross border interoperability; improve algorithm and notification for Automated Flight plan Rerouting; develop ASM scenarios; and contribute to developing the concept for a Green FUA Level 2 negotiation process.

        Leader: EUROCONTROL

        Beneficiaries: DSNA, PANSA.

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          This outcome aims to develop further the ADS-C common service and all its components from the current TRL6 up to TRL7/8. This will allow reliable distribution of the Extended Projected Profile (EPP) data to the ATSUs and to Network Manager (NM) within operational validation exercises and in support of network operations.

          Starting from the work previously performed in the SESAR PJ38 ADSCENSIO, HERON aims to carry through towards a system complete, standardized, qualified, and ready for industrialisation. Within HERON, the ACS service distribution will be further developed, deployed, and validated; its services (ADS-C data contract, collection, distribution) will be implemented in the project demonstrations, wherein the data will be used for the purpose of the test scenarios and exercises to be performed.

          ADS-C as an enabler is expected to leverage operational benefits for ATM stakeholders via a set of different applications and use cases, which become possible through ADS-C. Depending on the specific use case, different KPAs are being targeted and improved; this can include improvements in safety, ATCO productivity, flight efficiency, predictability, capacity, and environmental improvements, based on findings of previous SESAR work.

          In order to deliver this outcome, HERON will work on the ACS development; on deploying and Validating the ADS-C Server system; on Service Provision Preparation Activities; and on supporting requirement and standardization, i.e., the European standards agenda-setting process for the identification of standardisation needs for ACS.

          Leader: ESSP

          Beneficiaries: DFS, ENAV, ENAIRE, EUROCONTROL, LEONARDO, NATS.

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