Skykraft’s advanced space-enabled Air Traffic Management services are set to enhance safety and efficiency across Papua New Guinea.
Skykraft has unveiled a significant partnership with Niusky Pacific to deploy a space-based Air Traffic Management (ATM) system across Papua New Guinea’s domestic and oceanic Flight Information Regions (FIR). Information Regions (FIR). This partnership represents a significant leap forward in leveraging cutting-edge technology to address the challenges of managing one of the world’s most complex and demanding airspaces.
Transforming Air Traffic Management
Skykraft’s space-enabled ATM services will introduce a new era of safety and efficiency for air traffic management in Papua New Guinea. The collaboration aims to improve operational procedures by integrating space-based technologies, which will be especially beneficial for managing the country’s vast and varied airspace. This includes both the oceanic sectors and the domestic airspace that covers remote and rugged terrain.
The new system will enable continuous communication and tracking of aircraft across the entire FIR, providing a substantial advantage over traditional ground-based systems. By utilising satellite technology, Skykraft’s solution will ensure that air traffic controllers can monitor flights in real-time, regardless of their location, enhancing safety and operational efficiency.
Statements from the Partners
Graham Blythe, Managing Director of Niusky Pacific, emphasised the impact of this advancement: Skykraft’s space-enabled Air Traffic Management services will greatly improve safety and efficiency across Papua New Guinea’s airspace and support the growth of the aviation sector. This partnership is a crucial step forward in addressing the unique challenges of managing air traffic in our remote and challenging environment.
Dr Michael Frater, CEO of Skykraft, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating: “We are thrilled to work with Niusky Pacific and are confident that our space-enabled Air Traffic Management services will significantly enhance the management of Papua New Guinea’s airspace. Our technology will complement existing systems and provide a robust solution for real-time communication and tracking.”
Innovative Technology for Enhanced Operations
Skykraft’s space-enabled ATM services are designed to work in tandem with existing ground-based systems. The service includes advanced VHF radio communications that facilitate seamless real-time interactions between pilots and air traffic controllers. This will be complemented by a sophisticated surveillance system that uses ADS-B (Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast) technology to provide air traffic controllers with accurate and up-to-date information on aircraft positions.
This technology offers advantages that go beyond just enhancing safety and efficiency. By reducing reliance on ground-based infrastructure, the new system will lower maintenance costs and enhance the overall resilience of air traffic management operations in remote areas. This is particularly valuable in regions like Papua New Guinea, where geographical challenges make traditional air traffic management systems less feasible.
Benchmark
The collaboration between Skykraft and Niusky Pacific marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of air traffic management technology. By harnessing space-based solutions, the partners are setting a new benchmark for managing some of the world’s most challenging airspaces. This innovative approach promises to enhance safety, operational efficiency, and overall effectiveness, paving the way for future advancements in aviation management.