The connected ATM world
Today’s ATM system comprises a wide variety of applications developed over time for specific purposes. It is characterised by many custom communication protocols, each with their own self-contained information systems: on board the aircraft, in the air traffic control centre, in the military control centre, etc. Each of these interfaces is custom designed, developed, managed, and maintained individually and locally at a significant cost. Moreover, the way ATM information is defined / structured, and the way it is provided and used are specific for most of the ATM systems. Today, ANSPs rely on closed systems with proprietary point-to-point communication for data exchange.
The expected increase in aviation capacity demands, economic pressure and attention to the environmental impact are relying ever more on accurate and timely information. Such information must be organised and provided through flexible means that support system-wide interoperability, secured, seamless information access and exchange. SWIM will enable the ATM systems to operate as an overlay to IP networks using open standards and ATM-defined data exchange models (AIXM, WXXM, FIXM).
Message Handling
The Aeronautical Fixed Telecommunications Network (AFTN) has been used by air navigation services providers for the exchange of messages pertaining to the safety of air navigation. AFTN provides a store-and-forward messaging service for the conveyance of aeronautical text messages of limited size using character-oriented procedures. . AMHS, the successor of AFTN is based on the international X.400 messaging standard, which offers enhanced functionality over AFTN, such as the possibility to exchange messages with attachments, end-to-end message security and the use of directory services to enhance interoperability.
Frequentis AIDA-NG and smartMessenger are designed to assist ANSPs with their migration from AFTN to AMHS. They support both message formats and the bi-directional conversion easing the migration process.
SWIM
The concept of SWIM – System Wide Information Management - covers a complete change in paradigm of how information is managed across the whole ATM system. SWIM enables direct ATM benefits by assuring the provision of commonly understood quality information delivered to the right people at the right time. SWIM is transversal in its nature, connecting across all ATM systems, data domains, as well as planning, execution, post-execution, and the wide range of stakeholders.
System Wide Information Management (SWIM) is an integral component of the digital transformation that is taking place in the aviation industry and the Frequentis MosaiX SWIM integration platform is a key enabler.
Frequentis MosaiX SWIM is an end-to-end solution that provides organisations with all of the tools required to unlock and monetise their data and by offering new services to their customers. It allows organisations to easily interface with legacy and third-party systems, enabling data to be freed from traditional storage silos and fused with different sources.
Global harmonisation and better exchange of information
SWIM results in a more cost and time efficient exchange of information between providers and users. Global interoperability and standardisation are essential and SWIM is expected to be an important driver for new and updated standards.
Portfolio
- MosaiX SWIM Aviation integration platform
- AIDA-NG Aeronautical Integrated Data Exchange Agent - Next Generation
- smartMessenger ATS Message Handling System (AMHS)