eATM Portal

Trajectory Based Operations

Trajectory based operations is an overarching SESAR concept, it is based on a wide range of solution that, when combined, help achieve the envisaged paradigm change. A large number of solutions supporting the other Essential Operational Changes are also contributing to TBO. In the following subsections, only the solutions that are specifically related to TBO are listed. It should be noted that the scope of TBO is much larger than the sum of the solutions listed below.
A trajectory representing business/mission intentions of airspace users and integrating ATM and airport constraints is elaborated and agreed for each flight resulting in a reference trajectory that the airspace user agrees to fly and ANSPs and airports agree to facilitate. The integration of trajectory management processes in planning and execution phases refers to the management, negotiation and sharing of the shared business trajectory (SBT) as well as the management, updating, revision and sharing of the reference business trajectory (RBT) and finally the transition from the SBT to the RBT. This process will be initially deployed via extended flight plan (eFPL) based on International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) flight and flow in a collaborative environment (FF-ICE) during the planning phase (before departure) and will progressively evolve to eFPL phase two that encompasses flight planning exchanges in the execution phase. This change also involves ATC updates of SBT/RBT during the execution phase. Furthermore, during execution of the RBT, advanced separation modes (relying on new surveillance enablers e.g. ADS-B IN/OUT) and new safety nets are put in place to facilitate the safe evolution of the trajectory flown (relying on enhanced systems e.g. ACAS Xa). With regard to mission trajectory the first step is to improve the operation air traffic (OAT) flight plan. The improved OAT flight plan and corresponding process will accommodate individual military airspace user needs and priorities for the mutual benefit of ATM system outcomes and performances for all stakeholders. The EOC also includes some legacy deployments (ground based and airborne safety nets) that are already validated concepts but are included as they will facilitate trajectory execution for specific low capability aircraft or fall-back procedures.

SESAR Solutions