Network Models for Voice and Data in Air Traffic Control (ATC)

Abstract

As air traffic increases, routes get more and more diverse and light and ultra light aircraft are becoming more and more popular, the classic system is beginning to show its weaknesses. The two main issues regarding classic radio communications are delay and the availability and reliability of network infrastructure related problems. Today's dense air traffic and the worldwide move to Future Air Navigation System (FANS) concepts demand a high level of modern and reliable Air Traffic Control (ATC) network to accommodate customer requirements now and in the future. This work tries to answer the questions that indicate the fact why a new air traffic control network generation based on higher speed terrestrial and VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) links has some essential comparative advantages related to the old circuit switched networks. The purpose of this thesis is to provide two air traffic control network models for switching voice and data methods for pilot-air traffic controller communications using E1 Leased lines and IP VSAT links. In the first model, the network is implemented using leased lines over fibre links reduce latency. In the second model, the network is implemented using IP over VSAT mesh network as an improvement to the bandwidth saving and cost - effective In these models, the network acts as a “two redundant network” main and standby The main benefit of these networks is the increase safety, as communications were there are many network without redundancy. Other benefits are solving the problems of delay, packet loss and bad quality of voice and data. The two proposed network models had to prove in the near future that they are ready to meet the requirements of more flexible, safer and cheaper way of air traffic management.