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easyJet inaugurates the future of air traffic with a next-generation satellite communication service
The system promises to reduce emissions and slash flight times between the UK and Spain
easyJet has ushered in a new era as the first airline to partner with the groundbreaking Iris programme, a pioneering initiative spearheaded by the European Space Agency (ESA) and global communications leader Viasat. This cutting-edge programme uses state-of-the-art satellite technology to transform air traffic management (ATM) and pave the way for a safer, more efficient and environmentally friendly aviation industry.
The budget carrier, which operates in more than 34 countries worldwide and is a popular option for tourists travelling between the UK and Spain, also boasts that the new system will slash flight times.
More broadly, the programme will be a key component in helping to modernise airspace across the industry, a crucial element in the airline sector’s path to net-zero emissions. In 2022, easyJet announced its interim carbon intensity reduction target of 35% by fiscal year 2035, based on 2020, as part of its commitment to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
Iris represents an important technological evolution, offering faster and more reliable satellite communications between the aircraft and the ground. This will help air traffic controllers and pilots to calculate the shortest routes available, fly at optimal altitudes and use continuous climb and descent trajectories.
And the more direct the flight path, the fewer emissions. This also means less time in the air for excited holidaymakers.
Javier Benedicto, Acting Director of Connectivity and Secure Communications at ESA, commented: “These first commercial Iris flights place Europe firmly at the forefront of the digitalisation and modernisation of Air Traffic Management.
“Iris offers tangible benefits to the commercial aviation community and society at large, including reduced carbon dioxide emissions and fewer delays for passengers through more efficient flight routes.”
In 2022, Viasat and ESA entered into a new agreement aimed at expanding the reach of their innovative Iris program on a global scale. Under the umbrella of Iris Global, the partnership will concentrate on developing and certifying technologies that enable the sharing of fuel savings, CO2 reductions, and congestion alleviation benefits with countries outside of Europe. Work on these advancements is already in progress.
Image: easyJet
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