CANSO’s European ANSPs ramp up efforts to manage record summer air traffic levels

Credit: CANSO

CANSO’s European Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs) are gearing up for what is expected to be the busiest summer for air traffic since the pandemic. With volumes forecast to be 5% higher than summer 2024, and with available airspace still reduced by 20% due to the Ukraine war, ANSPs are implementing a range of strategies to maintain safety and minimise delays.

New strategies aim to manage rising air traffic and minimise delays across increasingly congested European skies

Thunderstorm activity was the leading cause of delay in summer 2024 and is again expected to pose challenges. In response, ANSPs have enhanced adverse weather procedures by integrating meteorological experts with operational teams to deliver more frequent, sector-specific forecasts in real time.

Other key measures include optimising airspace sectors both horizontally and vertically, with new flight levels designed to boost capacity and flexibility during adverse weather. Additionally, agreements with unions are enabling more flexible rostering of air traffic control officers (ATCOs), increasing sector capacity when needed most.

Collaboration is also being strengthened across the aviation network in alignment with the EUROCONTROL #thinkNetwork campaign. The initiative encourages all stakeholders, pilots, controllers, and airports, to consider the wider network impact of local decisions. It promotes adherence to filed flight plans and improved communication around potential delay triggers.

“ANSPs across Europe are working tirelessly to ensure safe and efficient operations and optimal use of restricted airspace during what will undoubtedly be a busy summer for aviation,” said Simon Hocquard, CANSO Director General. “We call on all our operational partners to fulfil the expectations of the EUROCONTROL #thinkNetwok campaign so that we can all keep delays to a minimum for passengers.”

To future-proof airspace capacity, ANSPs are also recruiting more ATCOs and launching digitalisation projects. CANSO is supporting these efforts through its Guardians of the Skies recruitment campaign.

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