NextGenSESAR

NextGenSESAR is a proposed cross-Atlantic framework intended to align the United States’ NextGen program with Europe’s SESAR modernization efforts in air traffic management. The concept envisions harmonized standards, shared operational concepts, and interoperable data exchanges to enable seamless cross-border operations, particularly on transatlantic routes, while preserving safety and national regulatory requirements.

The framework would involve key stakeholders from both regions, including the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration, EUROCONTROL, the SESAR Joint Undertaking, national air navigation service providers, airlines, aircraft manufacturers, and ICAO. A joint governance structure would oversee architecture development, standards alignment, safety assessments, and implementation timelines, with mechanisms for ongoing review and dispute resolution. Public-private collaboration and funding arrangements would be specified to support joint demonstrations and scalable deployment.

Core ambitions cover several domains. A common data environment and architecture, akin to a SWIM-based information-sharing backbone, would enable real-time exchange of flight, weather, and airspace information. Trajectory-based operations, enhanced data communications, and interoperable surveillance concepts would be pursued to improve predictability and efficiency. Cross-border procedures, harmonized performance metrics, and cybersecurity and resilience requirements would be developed to ensure consistent safety and reliability. Workforce training, human factors, and certification pathways would be addressed to support integrated operations.

Implementation would proceed in phases, starting with joint architecture and standards development, followed by pilot demonstrations in selected cross-Atlantic corridors, gradual expansion to additional regions, and regulatory alignment. Expected benefits include higher airspace capacity, reduced fuel burn and emissions, improved safety margins, and better resilience to disruptions. Challenges include regulatory harmonization, cybersecurity, funding, and aligning national sovereignty considerations with international interoperability efforts.