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Automation in АТС

The computerization of cockpits led experts to question whether it was necessary for air traffic controllers to always give verbal instructions to pilots and whether there would be any benefits in a system where controllers sent messages electronically - Datalink systems. Such systems are currently under development and already in use to some degree. For example, in many parts of the world, meteorological updates are now sent this way (previously they would have been read to pilots).

There are generally recognized benefits for both safely and efficiency. Potential misunderstandings are a natural feature of at verbal communication. Pilots and controllers face this danger when they speak to each other and are urged to constantly check, confirm and clarify information. An instruction given by a controller should normally be read back. As well as the potential for important mistakes being made, this is a rather inefficient use of time where messages can be submitted electronically.

More controversial has been the idea of free flight, with research having been conducted into fully automated АТС systems. The improvements in flight control systems have led to considerable reductions in the workload of pilots during the cruise phase of flight, which can often be entirely conducted by the autopilot. The advent of GPS has also meant that pilots are now much suerer of their precise positions in the sky. The basic idea of free flight is that pilots would become responsible for plotting their optimal route and working out their own separation from other aircraft through direct pilot to pilot communications. Air traffic controllers would intervene only when necessary to resolve conflicts. Free flight has been investigated as a model for en route traffic above certain flight levels with arrivals and departures at airports still subject to normal АТС procedures.

Debate continues as to the feasibility of such a solution. In the US the increased efficiency that it could provide (in terms of allowing pilots to choose more direct routings) is often cited. In Europe, skies are more crowded and air traffic controllers are generally unionized and opposed to a measure they see as designed to save money at their expense. In response to such criticism, advocates of free flight say that controllers will still be needed, simply that the nature of their job will change. At present, implementation of any free flight system is unlikely in the near future.