Welcome to the forefront of sustainable aviation, where Global Air Navigation Services (GANS) is playing its part in developing operational procedures to minimize track mileage which reduces fuel burn and resultant emissions. Join us as we explore how GANS is partnering with airlines and making significant strides in fuel efficiency, contributing to greener and more eco-conscious aviation industry.

Reduced Engine Taxi: A Smart Departure Strategy

At GANS, we are committed to implementing innovative solutions to reduce the environmental impact of aviation. Our Air Traffic Control (ATC) team has introduced operational procedures that support the adoption of reduced engine taxi by a major airline at a bustling international airport. By shutting down one or more engines during taxi-out (depending on the aircraft type), we significantly decrease fuel consumption and subsequently lower emissions.

The impact of this initiative is truly remarkable. In a narrow-body fleet alone, Reduced Engine Taxi Out saves a substantial 24 tons of fuel, resulting in an impressive reduction of 175,720 kg of CO2 emissions. But that's not all – Reduced Engine Taxi In saves an additional 92 tons of fuel, equating to a remarkable reduction of 290,260 kg of CO2 emissions. Month after month, these fuel-saving strategies are making a tangible difference, creating a more sustainable future for the aviation industry.

Collaborating for Greater Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is a collective effort, and GANS is working hand in hand with a prominent low-cost airline to explore new strategies for fuel savings. By restricting arrival speed, where operationally achievable, to 160 knots until 6 nm instead of 4 nm, we have made strides in conserving fuel. This initiative alone can save up to 1200 kgs/hr, translating to a remarkable 15 kgs of fuel saved per approach compared to the traditional 160 kts till 4nm approach. Small changes like this add up to significant fuel and emissions reductions, setting the stage for a more sustainable aviation landscape.

Amended Runway Line-Up Procedure: Fuel Efficiency Takes Flight

GANS is proud to support one of the major hub airlines in its pursuit of fuel efficiency with an amended runway line-up procedure. Tailored for ultra-long-haul flights, this procedure provides an additional 55m of take-off distance, resulting in savings of up to 900 kilos of fuel for their US flights. The benefits of this amendment go beyond fuel savings – the extra take-off distance reduces the need to leave payload behind, enhancing operational flexibility and economic viability for airlines. By optimizing take-off procedures, GANS is helping airlines achieve a greener and more cost-effective approach to their operations.

Unlocking Greener Skies: GANS' Enhanced Flight Profiles Redefining Sustainable Aviation (byAbdulla Al Baloushi, Manager ATS (Approach), ADIA)

Welcome aboard as we transition into the future of sustainable aviation with Global Air Navigation Services (GANS). Today, we unveil how GANS collaborates with airlines and other airspace users to transform flight profiles, propelling us closer to greener and more environmentally friendly skies:

**Performance-Based Navigation (PBN): Redefining the Flight Experience**

At GANS, we believe in the power of innovation to drive positive change in the aviation industry. By introducing improved flight profiles through Performance-Based Navigation (PBN), we enable aircraft to navigate directly from point to point, eliminating the reliance on traditional land-based navigation aids. The result? Shorter distances flown, less fuel burned, and a substantial reduction in emissions.

**Continuous Descent Operations (CDOs) and Continuous Climb Departures (CCDs): Pioneering Efficiency**

Embracing the PBN concept, GANS has implemented cutting-edge arrival and departure procedures that optimize flight efficiency. Continuous Descent Operations (CDOs) revolutionize the landing approach, maintaining aircraft at near idle throttle settings, significantly reducing fuel consumption and associated emissions. On the other hand, Continuous Climb Departures (CCDs) enable aircraft to maintain a constant throttle setting during ascent, eliminating the need to level off, leading to greater fuel efficiency and minimizing emissions.

**Environmental Impact: Savings That Matter**

Every step towards sustainability matters and GANS' enhanced flight profiles deliver tangible results. By implementing Continuous Descent Approaches using optimal top-of descent points, we have typically saved around 200kg of fuel per approach, equivalent to a substantial reduction of 620kg of CO2 emissions per approach. Imagine the collective positive impact on the environment as more flights adopt these efficient procedures!

**A Step Towards a Greener Tomorrow**

Vertical profiles that offer continuous climb or descent present a clear path to a greener future. By embracing these innovative flight profiles, airlines can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable aviation ecosystem. With GANS as the pioneer in this journey, the skies are becoming cleaner, quieter, and more eco-friendly.

**Partnering for a Sustainable Future**

At Global Air Navigation Services (GANS), we strive to provide innovative and systematic solutions for sustainable aviation. Our primary focus is to assist stakeholders, including airlines and airports, in achieving their sustainable aviation goals and advancement toward Net Zero targets.

GANS is dedicated to reducing emissions and noise, both on the ground and in the air. We offer cutting-edge technologies and procedures that effectively mitigate the environmental impact of aviation operations.

One of our notable achievements is the development and implementation of state-of-the-art Required Navigation Performance – Authorisation Required (RNP-AR) approaches for international airports in the Middle East. Working closely with airline stakeholders, we designed and tested these advanced Performance Based Navigation (PBN) procedures, utilizing satellite navigation technology on equipped aircraft. The RNP-AR approaches enable participating aircraft to fly curved paths during their final approach, reducing track miles and promoting a Continuous Descent Approach (CDA). This results in significant fuel savings, leading to reduced CO2 and Nitrous Oxide emissions. On average, each RNP-AR approach can save approximately 200kg of fuel, leading to a reduction of 620kg of CO2 emissions per approach.

Moreover, the implementation of PBN offers improved design flexibility, allowing us to avoid Noise Sensitive Areas, when necessary, thereby contributing to noise reduction and community well-being.

GANS remains committed to consulting and collaborating with airline stakeholders, exemplified by our recent work at Abu Dhabi International. When the UAE Military implemented military airspace, the Standard Instrument Departures (SIDs) from the 31-direction runways required additional fuel uplift, resulting in higher operational costs for airlines. Recognizing the importance of efficiency, GANS redesigned these SIDs, leading to significant fuel savings for airlines and saving them an estimated USD $1 million annually.

With a focus on sustainability and operational efficiency, GANS continues to pioneer proactive solutions that make a meaningful impact on the aviation industry and the environment. By partnering with us, our stakeholders can achieve their sustainable aviation goals, contributing

It has been two years since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and the resultant decision for educational institutions globally to transition to distance learning as one of the main ways to combat the spread of COVID 19.

GANS Management was very proactive in planning and implementing the measures for virtual training, resulting in the training courses being moved online.

Virtual platforms such as MS Teams and GoToMeetings were procured, and all the instructors were fully trained to deliver the Virtual Led Instructor Training (VILT). At the same time, a ‘Distance Learning Code of Conduct’, clearly stating the protocols on virtual training, was written, and published to the staff and trainees. Documents and processes continued to be updated and improved throughout the duration of the pandemic.

Since this was a novel experience for all stakeholders, everyone learned a great deal at each step.

Virtual training delivery and assessment rehearsals were conducted by the ATC Instructors, students, and invigilators with the help of the Training Academy Management, IT, Student Services, Scholarship and Compliance support staff. These rehearsals were also witnessed by the GCAA Licensing Inspectors, who officially approved the virtual delivery of the very first Basic ATC ICAO 051 course and its assessments. The GCAA’s swift approval was a result of the constant communication and collaboration between the Training Academy and those concerned in the State Regulatory body.

On the 8th of March 2020, it was decided to suspend all classroom training and testing at the GANS Training Academy.  Six courses had to be indefinitely postponed while a plan of action was put in place for the 16 trainees on the ICAO 051 course. Many large-scale challenges were faced in terms of preparing and converting all courseware materials, assessments etc. to distance learning. A significant hurdle was converting the courseware under time pressure, to avoid delays while maintaining minimal loss of trainee performance.

Although the ICAO 051 trainees graduated 8 weeks later than scheduled, the pandemic has shown us that innovative methods of hybrid learning – combining classroom education and distance education through the smart use of digital technologies, can be successfully utilized.

Furthermore, the lessons learned from the ICAO 051 course paved the way for us to expand and become competent in delivering online training to interested local and international customers. To date, the GANS Training Academy has delivered over 80 online and blended courses, proving that investing in distance learning has been a valuable experience which will persist beyond the pandemic despite the challenges faced due to the benefits it provides by reducing travel related expenses associated with training.

Contributors:

Eida Al Kaabi – Scholarship Officer, Maha Osman – English Instructor, John Jennette – English Instructor, Mohammed Basit – Compliance Monitoring Officer, Pamela Johnson – Chief Instructor, Dennis Chavez – Head of Training

You must be the change you want to see in the world- Mahatma Gandhi

We all want a better aviation world, but we never ponder to think that the aviation world is made up of people Iike you and me, and we are responsible for shaping that aviation world we work in. It all starts with individuals who are striving to see a better aviation environment, who even if they don’t have the resources will use anything and everyone around them to see the change that they desire. One of the greatest speeches of the century is Martin Luther King’s “I have a dream.” He didn’t live to see the dream, but guaranteed he inspired enough people to realise that dream.

What is your dream? Why are you on planet earth? Why are you in aviation? It’s not only about being a statistic, it is about contributing to the aviation fraternity, to make it a desirable industry.

I know for sure that what we dwell on is who we become – Oprah Winfrey

We learn from nature, that it only takes a few drops of rain to transform a desolate valley into a lavish environment, it only takes a few days to see the life and beauty. An ATS Instructor’s transformation is to take words and actions; time to change the next generation which will change the aviation world we work in.

If we want a better aviation world, it all starts with us, each one of us realising that they are a piece of this great puzzle, and if that there is a piece missing, the picture is not complete.

This brings to mind what Larry Winget said

“Nobody ever wrote down a plan to be broke, fat, lazy, or stupid. Those things are what happen when you don’t have a plan.”

I have a dream.

Why do you wake up & do want you do? Pause to think that it’s not all about you, it’s about how & what you have to do to better the environment you are in. Then I must say you came to the wrong planet and you are part of the decay of this world.

I quote

We learn something from everyone who passes through our lives. Some lessons are painful, some are painless. but, all are priceless.” – Unknown

ATS Instructors impart knowledge and skills, with the hope that the knowledge, skills are recognised, and manifested into a generation of controllers that will perfect the art of air traffic management.

I quote

“You can get everything in life you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want.”– Zig Ziglar

All these words are not just an article on inspiration, but inspiration that yawns to live & grow in the people that read these words. May you live to inspire and change today and tomorrow’s aviation world.

I quote

“Build your own dreams, or someone else will hire you to build theirs.” – Farrah Gray

ICAO, the governing body of the international aviation industry, identified that breakdowns in communication or lack of English proficiency were a contributing factor in a significant number of aviation accidents and incidents. In an attempt to reduce this human factor element among the causes of accidents, in 2003 ICAO introduced its Language Proficiency Requirements (LPRs), along with a Proficiency Rating Scale. From 2011 pilots and air traffic controllers have been obliged to pass a language proficiency test as part of their licensing requirements. As a result, many aviation English tests have been produced and are in use for pilot and ATC certification. However only one, the ELPAC test, has been recognised by the ICAO as conforming with their Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) for Language Proficiency Requirements.

English Language Proficiency for Aeronautical Communication (ELPAC) are tests to assess the English language proficiency of pilots and air traffic controllers in an operational context. There are separate tests for pilots and controllers.

Raters undergo one week of training with a further two days of training required for raters to be able to award test-takers the ‘Expert’ level of proficiency.

ELPAC tests have two parts. The first is an internet-based listening test. Candidates’ listening comprehension of routine communications is tested, such as identifying flight levels, followed by non-routine situations, for example medical emergencies or equipment malfunction. The authenticity of the recordings is enhanced by the use different accents and background noises typical in real pilot-controller communications.

The second part of the test is a direct speaking test administered by two examiners. Candidates participate in simulated routine and non-routine radiotelephony communications, and face-to- face interactions where they report events and take part in a discussion.

Take a look at the user-friendly Eurocontrol website. There’s lots of useful information and some sample tests you can investigate: https://elpac.eurocontrol.int/prepare_test.html

he ATM Incident Investigation Course was validated at the end of February and this finalised many months of work to create original materials. The development process and lesson content were subject to rigorous scrutiny by ICAO before approval for delivery was granted. This process helped ensure the material met the highest standard possible.

The course is based on modern task-based training techniques which are student-centred and mirror, as closely as possible, the real-world environment trainees will be part of following the course. It is a move away from conventional power point, lecture style delivery to a more dynamic instruction environment. The instructor is a facilitator who acts as a coach guiding trainees to achieve course outcomes. Trainees are involved in their learning every step of the way. Assessment is done by gathering evidence throughout the investigation process to show that trainees have met the course objectives. This is known as a portfolio of evidence which demonstrates how well the trainee is able to carry out the task. It allows instructors to give detailed feedback to trainees and their managers to identify strengths and weaknesses in all facets of the investigation process. Feedback from course participants has been overwhelmingly positive as they find the material engaging and instructive.

This year’s Airport Show came to an end last week (7th – 9th May) after three busy days which focused on key industry themes. The 18th edition of Airport show was opened by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group and Patron of Airport Show. Whilst opening the show, His Highness said contribution of the aviation sector to Dubai’s GDP has been growing steadily and is expected to reach 38 per cent, thus creating more jobs and aiding overall growth.

With more than 300 exhibitors from over 90 countries showcasing their products to Middle East, Asia and Africa, these regions are experiencing significant growth. The show which claims to be the largest in the world provided an excellent platform for suppliers across the entire value chain of services from airport operators, ground handling companies, air navigation service providers, system manufacturers and consultancy firms.

GAL ANS exhibited in the new ATC Forum which was introduced this year and will be a regular feature of the Airport Show going forward. ATC Forum offered air traffic management professionals a dedicated exhibition and conference, aimed at ANSPs, CAAs, airports, airlines and the military. GAL ANS presented its full range of capabilities in Air Navigation, Engineering, Training and Consultancy services. ATC Forum created a good platform for key players in the Air Traffic Management industry to discuss topical subjects like Airspace and ground capacity, UAV Traffic Management and digital/remote towers. We welcomed a record number of visitors to our stand.

GAL ANS General Manager for Abu Dhabi Airports Sally Franks, was a panel speaker at this year’s Women in Aviation conference, the panel discussed Airport Management – What defines a best airport: a closer look at the ambitious airport plans in the Middle East. The panel discussed the factors driving airport growth in the Middle East, airport performance and what the industry must do to attract more people into the industry. During the panel Sally explained that collaboration was the key to success of an Airport and that Abu Dhabi Airport was in the process of implementing Airport-Collaborative Decision Making to ensure seamless collaboration of all stakeholders which will improve overall performance and increase resilience. Sally also highlighted that the Air Traffic industry needs to do more to enlighten and showcase the air traffic management industry as a prospective and exciting career path at all levels of education from primary schools to tertiary institutions.

Even though the show was held at a time when there is transformation and re-structuring taking place in reaction to economic and geo-political challenges, it was clear that the industry is showing its resilience with green shoots of growth starting to emerge. Reflecting on the back to back meetings with many industry partners and stakeholders, GAL ANS had a very busy and fruitful three days during the show. Bring on next year’s ATC Forum.