The EUROCONTROL Network Manager (NM) and the CEOs of the A6 Alliance have met to discuss the challenges with accommodating the expected surge in air traffic in Summer 2023 and how the key stakeholders can come together to agree, commit, and deliver on a common plan this year. Traffic is anticipated to increase by approximately 15% on 2022 with continued volatility across the network as the overall level of airspace available has greatly reduced compared to before the pandemic.
IAA CEO, Peter Kearney, as Chairman of the A6 Alliance affirmed “the A6 Alliance is committed to working closely with all stakeholders to ensure that there is a common plan across the network and that appropriate measures are put in place to cater for the demand in Europe this year”. The A6 members commit to the sustainable delivery of air traffic capacity as per the commitments being agreed upon by all members.
Mr. Kearney credits the Network Manager for ongoing efforts to ensure the full coordination of operational stakeholders and States noting that any stakeholder can be a single point of failure, as per the experience last summer. Mr. Kearney also expressed confidence that this planning exercise that is developing through a forum organised by the EUROCONTROL Network Manager has the potential to alleviate most bottlenecks in the network over the coming months, ensuring that passengers have a more enjoyable experience in terms of predictability.
Iacopo Prissinotti, the EUROCONTROL Director Network Management said „Our meeting is part of EUROCONTROL’s Summer 2023 programme where we have taken the initiative to meet with all partners in the European aviation sector to build trust and create a positive environment among all actors for our common goal of smooth, efficient and sustainable air traffic in Europe. In the current complex network situation - where we are expecting up to 15% more flights this summer than already saturated last summer – disciplined execution of all plans in full partnership is key!”
In addition, the CEOs of A6 Alliance and the EUROCONTROL NM discussed and exchanged views on other key strategic items of common interest.
