Minimising delays, maximising efficiency: SESAR’s FASTNet project prepares to validate two new solutions

The SESAR Joint Undertaking’s FASTNet project is gearing up to validate two innovative solutions designed to enhance the predictability and efficiency of flight operations. The project aims to demonstrate the value of data-driven insights during the strategic and pre-tactical phases of airport operations management. It brings together European airports, airspace users, industry, and EUROCONTROL’s Network Manager to improve overall air traffic management.

Part of FASTNet, SESAR Solution 346 aims to identify and adjust specific flights that may cause bottlenecks, rather than the usual method of broadly delaying all inbound flights. This approach is intended to minimise delays and maximise efficiency across the network, whilst also providing benefits such as improved costings and reduced environmental impact.

Solution 347 is designed to highlight the benefits of a data-driven, unified approach across stakeholders, reinforcing information sharing among airports, airlines, and the Network Manager for the sake of improved efficiency and optimal planning. This Solution allows for the creation of several types of models, ranging from predicting the number of hold luggage items on a given flight to early publication of flight intentions, thereby improving traffic predictions.

The validation exercises for Solution 346 are scheduled to start in September 2025, with shadow mode trials between Copenhagen Airport and Brussels Airport. Live trials will be conducted between Athens International Airport and Rhodes Airport. For Solution 347, validation exercises are also scheduled to start in September 2025 and will take place in Paris Orly Airport.

Once the trials are complete and results are analysed, FASTNet will share findings with the broader aviation community through a dedicated Open Day event. Find out more here.