The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has partnered with the information technology provider, Harris Corporation to set up a new tool to enhance air traffic management (ATM) efficiency.
IATA and the American company have collaborated to introduce the new cloud-based tool called SkyFusion.
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SkyFusion enables airports, air navigation service providers (ANSPs) and airlines to share operational information across flight information regions.
The users can utilise the shared information to adjust their plans accordingly around disruptions and other ATM-related events.
The tool will also help users access and share information at a much reduced cost.
IATA ATM Infrastructure director Rob Eagles said: ”Airlines, airports and ANSPs share the common goals of improving efficiency, lowering operating costs and reducing emissions.
"This platform will facilitate effective exchange of information so that operational decisions can be made with the highest net benefit from the ATM system.
"By partnering with Harris, we are leveraging both organisations’ expertise to form a backbone for innovative ATM solutions."
The information provided through the SkyFusion tool is powered by the System-Wide Information Management (SWIM) data exchange protocol that aligns with the ICAO Global Air Navigation Plan (GANP) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) recommendations.
Pilots will be able to use this new product from March 2016, while it will be available for commercial use from July 2016.
Harris Corporation Critical Networks president Carl D’Alessandro said: "Collaboration is the key to vastly improving commercial ATM operations on a global scale.
"It can positively impact every aspect of airspace operations, from reducing delays to saving fuel."
In October 2015, IATA has launched the Smart Security Opportunity Assessment programme to enhance security at airports, while making the process convenient for travellers.
