Free Route is an operational concept that enables airspace users to fly as close as possible to what they consider their optimal trajectory without the constraints of a fixed route network structure. Free Route Airspace (FRA) is a specified airspace within which users may freely plan a route between a defined FRA entry point and defined FRA exit point, with the possibility to route via intermediate (published or unpublished) waypoints, without reference to the ATS route network, subject to airspace availability. Within this airspace, flights remain subject to air traffic control.

The Initial FRA implementation may be achieved with some limitations, for example:

- laterally and vertically;
- during specific time periods;

The Initial FRA deployment shall be based on the following system improvements:

For NM systems:

• FPL processing and checking
• Dynamic rerouting
• Calculation and management of traffic load
• IFPS routing proposal
• Specific ASM improvements for FRA
• Network impact assessment for FRA
• CACD adaptations for FRA Initial deployment

For AU systems:

• FPL route planning for a complete flight taking into account the differences of limitations (e.g. in terms of opening time and/or flight level constraints) throughout the entire flight
• Long DCT with or without calculated intermediate points
• Capability to take into account different constraint e.g.: ATS, FRA, RAD, scenarios, FL constraints on part of the route only, etc
• FPL route planning for a complete flight taking into account the differences of implementations (FRA with or without partial implementation) throughout the entire flight.

ANSPs may decide which system improvements are needed for Initial FRA. The list below addresses the potential improvement to ATC systems. The choice of the appropriate tool/function to achieve Initial FRA remains a stakeholder decision based on the operational environment and may include any of the following tool/functions as follows:

• FDPS supporting the airspace structure and managing trajectories according to the flight plan;
• CWP and HMI supporting appropriate display and functions as required by operational needs;
• FDPS to calculate ground 4D trajectories within AoI and editing function for 4D trajectories including Cross AoR Points (Coordination Point COP management);
• ASM/ATFCM for FRA management;
• MTCD (detecting conflicts between A/C and A/C, and between A/C and airspace);
• CORA (conflict probe and passive conflict resolution advisor);
• MONA (conformance monitoring aids);
• ATC clearances beyond AoR;
• ATC to ATC Flight Data Exchange (OLDI and/or SYSCO);
• Dynamic sectorisation and constraint management;
• Dynamic Area Proximity Warning (APW) –Integrated with ASM tools;
• Provision/integration of FPL and real-time data related to the FRA traffic to the Military ATS units and or air defence organisations;
• Conflict Detection Tools which include the Tactical Controller Tool (TCT), using the tactical trajectory and managing the clearances along that trajectory.

NOTE FOR MILITARY AUTHORITIES: It is the responsibility of each Military Authority to review this Objective IN ITS ENTIRETY and address each of the SLoAs that the Military Authority considers RELEVANT for itself. This has to be done on top and above of the review of "MIL" SLoAs which identify actions EXCLUSIVE to MIL Authorities.

Edition

2022

Stakeholders

Air Navigation Service Provider / Airspace Users / Network Manager

Type

CP1

Scope

ECAC+

Status

Active