A groundbreaking aviation system backed by the European Space Agency (ESA) is poised to revolutionize air travel across Europe, reducing flight delays and promoting greener journeys. The ESA-supported Iris for aviation system enables pilots to connect digitally with air traffic controllers through satellites, allowing for optimized flight routes. By flying the most efficient paths, pilots can save time, fuel, and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 10%.
The system has nearly completed its certification process with the European Aviation Safety Authority, paving the way for pan-European air traffic management. A commercial agreement has been signed between Inmarsat, a UK-based satellite communication company that developed the technology with ESA support (recently acquired by Viasat), and the European Satellite Services Provider (ESSP), responsible for delivering communication, navigation, and surveillance services for aviation.
Under the agreement, the ESSP will collaborate with over 30 national air traffic control authorities to manage the completion of certification from the European Aviation Safety Agency. The Iris system establishes secure, reliable, and high-bandwidth links between pilots and air traffic controllers, facilitating the transmission of large amounts of data. This innovative technology enhances and complements the existing data communications infrastructure in Europe’s congested airspace, which is nearing full capacity.
Iris is scheduled to enter commercial and operational service throughout Europe next year, with airlines like easyJet and ITA Airways already committing to its implementation. The system’s widespread adoption will lead to the development of new environmentally friendly routes, improved air traffic control management, reduced fuel costs, and more efficient air operations.
Charlotte Neyret, CEO of the ESSP, expressed confidence in Iris as a pioneering satellite communications data link program, highlighting the numerous benefits it will bring to the aerospace industry. Joel Klooster, Senior Vice President of Airline Operations and Safety for Viasat’s recently acquired Inmarsat business, described the appointment of the ESSP as a crucial milestone, emphasizing the collaborative effort required to combat climate change. Javier Benedicto, Acting Director of Connectivity and Secure Communications at ESA, praised the space-enabled digitalization of Europe’s skies, stating that Iris represents ESA’s commitment to utilizing space for a greener future.
The imminent certification of the Iris system marks a significant achievement for the aviation industry, promising shorter journey times and a more sustainable approach to air travel. The ESA’s dedication to advancing space technology for environmental purposes is evident in the development of Iris, which stands as a testament to the potential of space-enabled solutions in creating a greener aviation sector.