UK-based air navigation services provider NATS has signed a memorandum of understanding with Airbus air traffic management’s (ATM) subsidiary, Airbus ProSky, to develop joint market propositions to boost capacity and improve air traffic system efficiency.
As per the agreement, the companies will combine their specialisms, namely NATS’ operational expertise in air traffic management and Airbus ProSky’s knowledge of airborne capabilities, to develop a programme to address ATM industry challenges.
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NATS CEO Richard Deakin said: "Collaboration is absolutely key to our future growth and this has the potential to be one of the most exciting partnerships in the entire industry. By combining our relative strengths, I believe we can offer something new and exciting to customers all over the world."
"Adverse weather is a major issue for our airline and airport customers. It is the single biggest cause of delay and together we want to offer a package of solutions that could radically improve resilience."
Initially, the firms will focus on enhancing airport resilience in adverse weather, including low visibility, thunderstorms and high headwinds. Furthermore, both parties will cooperate on air traffic flow management and airspace design.
Airbus ProSky CEO Paul-Franck Bijou commented: "This partnership will truly bring a new and unique approach to the industry."
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By GlobalData"We are already actively working on some advanced concept of operations and we are looking forward to bringing new solutions to our customers worldwide."
In 2015, NATS intends to roll-out time-based separation at London Heathrow Airport, as part of its strategy to reduce the delays due to high headwinds by half.
Image: Richard Deakin and Bijou sign the memorandum of understanding. Photo: courtesy of NATS Limited.
