In line with the modernisation of France’s air traffic management (ATM) system, Thales and the Direction des Services de la Navigation Aerienne (DSNA) inaugurated 4-FLIGHT  – a new generation of air traffic control (ATC) designed to ensure a smoother flow of flights, while being more environmentally friendly.

The first operational implementation of 4-FLIGHT at the East Area Control Centre (ACC) was inaugurated in Reims on 8 December, 2022. Marseilles also implemented the system on 6 December.

The system is one of the most advanced stripless ATC systems in Europe and comes equipped with an intuitive human-machine interface (HMI), the latest generation of equipment, as well as innovative and sophisticated tools to support flight management and safety.

The system’s advanced Flight Data Processing system, Coflight, provides controllers with more accurate forecasts of 4D flight trajectories, enabling them to focus on essential tasks, better optimise air routes and contribute to sustainable aviation.

“This success is a source of pride for DSNA staff, who have been very involved in this complex ATM project,” said Florian Guillermet, DSNA CEO. “This implementation of 4-FLIGHT at Reims, then at Marseille proves the commitment of DSNA to pursue its technological modernisation to deliver the challenges of the Digital European Sky, and high-quality and more competitive service. This represents a major European air navigation milestone for the sustainable recovery of air transport.”

Registered as a SESAR Solutions, 4-FLIGHT is interoperable with other European air navigation systems. It is connected to 10 ANSPs neighbouring France, including ENAIRE in Spain, DGAC in Algeria, ENAV in Italy, Skyguide in Switzerland, DFS in Germany, the Maaastricht UAC (EUROCONTROL), Skeyes in Belgium, ANA in Luxembourg, NATS in the UK, IAA in Ireland and the Network Manager (EUROCONTROL.

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