Summary
- NextGen moves from radar to satellite tracking, improving accuracy and communication between pilots and air traffic controllers.
- Performance-based navigation enables more direct routes, fuel savings, emission reductions and increased airspace capacity.
- NextGen integrates digital communications, advanced weather forecasting and environmental benefits to improve air travel in the United States.
The Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) is a comprehensive overhaul to modernize the United States National Airspace System (NAS) being implemented by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). NextGen aims to improve the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of air transportation. Here are five key things you should know about this transformative initiative:
1 From ground-based to satellite-based
The evolution of radar technology
NextGen is a significant shift from traditional radar-based air traffic control to a satellite-based system, according to the FAA. Radar has been the backbone of air traffic control since World War II, but it has limitations in accuracy and coverage, especially over oceans and remote areas. Satellite technology, on the other hand, enables precise, real-time positioning of aircraft, enabling better tracking and more efficient route planning.
Satellite technology offers greater accuracy because satellite-based tracking provides more precise aircraft positions. In addition, satellite technology covers even the most remote areas, unlike radar, which has blind spots. A satellite-based system also improves communication between pilots and air traffic controllers, reducing delays and increasing safety.
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According to Skybrary, the elements of NextGen are:
- Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcasting (ADS-B)
- Next generation data communication
- Next Generation Networked Weather (NNEW)
- System-wide information management (SWIM)
- NAS Language Switch (NVS)
2 Performance-based navigation (PBN)
More precise flight routes, more fuel savings
Performance-based navigation is one of the core components of NextGen, allowing aircraft to follow more direct and fuel-efficient routes, according to the FAA. PBN uses advanced avionics and GPS technology to guide aircraft, reducing the need for traditional ground-based navigation aids.
Photo: Boeing
PBN includes both Area Navigation (RNAV) and Required Navigation Performance (RNP). RNAV enables aircraft to follow any desired flight path within the range of ground- or satellite-based navigation aids or according to the capabilities of the aircraft.
RNP, on the other hand, is a more advanced form of RNAV that requires aircraft to be equipped to continuously monitor their navigation performance and alert pilots if performance falls below required levels during a flight. RNP procedures are particularly useful for operations in challenging environments, such as near mountainous areas or in busy airspace, as they improve both safety and efficiency.
Photo: Markus Mainka | Shutterstock
The main advantages of PBN are:
- Fuel efficiency: PBN enables shorter distances and reduces fuel consumption.
- Reduced emissions: More direct routes mean fewer emissions and contribute to environmental sustainability.
- Increased airspace capacity: More efficient routing allows more aircraft to be managed in the same airspace, reducing congestion.
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3 Next generation data communication
Improve productivity, capacity and safety
Currently, communication between flight crew and air traffic control, as well as between air traffic controllers themselves, is primarily done through voice communication. According to the FAA, NextGen’s new digital communication systems will enable more efficient and timely message exchange between air traffic controllers and pilots.
Photo: Airbus
This system provides an additional method of bi-directional communication for:
- Air traffic control clearances
- Instructions
- Notes
- Flight crew inquiries
- Reports
Photo: American Airlines
Since most aircraft are equipped with data links, exchanging routine messages and clearances between controllers and pilots through this system allows air traffic controllers to handle more traffic, increasing their productivity and improving both capacity and safety.
4 Next Generation Networked Weather (NNEW)
Improved weather forecasting and management
Weather is a major factor in delays and disruptions to air travel – it affects flight schedules and safety, leads to longer waiting times and changed travel plans. NextGen integrates advanced weather forecasting tools into the air traffic management system, enabling better planning and decision-making. This ultimately helps mitigate the impact of severe weather on flight operations.
According to Skybrary, weather is responsible for 70% of NAS delays each year. NextGen’s Next Generation Network Enabled Weather (NNEW) system aims to reduce these weather-related delays by at least 50%. By integrating tens of thousands of global weather observations and sensor reports from ground, air, and space-based sources into a unified, real-time national weather information system, NNEW will provide a consistent weather view across the entire national airspace system and improve aviation decision-making.
Photo: Angel DiBilio | Shutterstock
The positive impacts of NNEW include:
- Real-time data: Access to current weather information for pilots and air traffic controllers.
- Predictive models: Improved forecast models help predict weather patterns and adjust flight routes accordingly.
- Safety improvements: Improved weather information leads to safer flights, especially in turbulent conditions.
5 Environmental benefits
NextGen is good for everyone
NextGen is designed not only to improve the operational efficiency of air travel, but also to deliver significant environmental benefits, in line with global efforts to decarbonise the aviation industry.
In addition, the FAA supports programs to promote sustainable aviation fuels and aircraft and engines with lower fuel consumption and lower emissions. By reducing fuel consumption, shortening flight times, and improving airspace management, NextGen is helping to create a more sustainable and cost-effective aviation system.
Environmental impacts:
- More efficient flight routes contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions.
- New procedures are helping to minimize noise pollution around airports.
- New systems and technologies enable the industry to meet environmental standards across the NAS.
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NextGen is a groundbreaking initiative that is reimagining the future of air travel in the United States. Through the use of satellite technology, improved navigation and communications, and a focus on sustainability, NextGen is designed to make air travel safer, more efficient, and more environmentally friendly. As the system evolves, it will play a critical role in meeting the needs of modern aviation while reducing the environmental impact of air travel. The next generation air transportation system is expected to be fully implemented by 2030.
