Bhubaneswar – The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has taken a significant step towards enhancing air traffic safety and efficiency by inaugurating its Indigenous ATM Automation System at Bhubaneswar Airport.
This development is part of AAI’s ongoing efforts to modernize the Air Traffic Management System, focusing on state-of-the-art ATM Automation Systems, Surveillance, Communication, and Navigation systems.
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Years of Expertise in ATM Automation
Over the last few decades, AAI has accumulated extensive experience and expertise in developing Quality Requirements for ATM Automation Systems (ATMAS). In collaboration with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), AAI has now achieved remarkable success with the “Development of Indigenous ATM Automation System and integration of Advanced-surface movement guidance and control system (ASMGCS) with ATMAS” project.
Inauguration Ceremony
The inauguration ceremony took place on October 26, 2023, and was graced by the presence of Sh. Sanjeev Kumar, Chairman of the Airports Authority of India, and Sh. Bhanu Prakash Srivastava, Chairman & Managing Director of Bharat Electronics Limited. Senior officials from both AAI and BEL were also present at this momentous event.
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Driving ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make in India’
The joint development of this Indigenous ATM Automation System represents a significant achievement for AAI and BEL. It showcases their capabilities and expertise in the fields of ATM systems and research and development, aligning with the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) and ‘Make in India’ missions of the Government of India. Not only does this advancement enhance the country’s self-sufficiency, but it also reduces AAI’s dependency on foreign procurement for Air Navigation Services (ANS) infrastructure, resulting in substantial foreign exchange savings.
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Enhancing Air Traffic Control
The ATM Automation System equips air traffic controllers with conflict prediction/alert warnings and decision-making tools, ensuring safe and efficient air traffic control. As automation plays a crucial role in handling the growing air traffic, AAI’s initiative to install ATM automation at medium and major Air Traffic Control (ATC) centers enhances safety, operational efficiency, and reduces the stress levels of controllers.
Key System Components
This advanced system comprises various in-house developed technologies, including Situation Display for air traffic controllers, Surveillance Data Processing (SDP), Flight Data Processing (FDP), Safety Net and Decision Support (SNET), Control & Monitoring Display (CMD), and Advanced ASMGCS. Together, these technologies increase capacity, improve safety, reduce controller workload, enhance air traffic flow, and minimize flight delays. The system’s redundant and distributed architecture ensures enhanced reliability and availability, safeguarding ATM operations.
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Joint Development Agreement
The memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the joint development of the Indigenous ATM Automation System between AAI and BEL was signed during Wings India 2022 in Hyderabad on March 24, 2022. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in India’s aviation industry, underlining the country’s commitment to technological advancements and self-reliance.
The inauguration of the Indigenous ATM Automation System at Bhubaneswar Airport is a testament to AAI’s dedication to making Indian skies safer and more efficient. It is a significant stride towards ensuring the growth and security of air travel in India.
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