IP-based Space Air Ground Information Network for Air Traffic Control Communication

Abstract

Communication Navigation and Surveillance (CNS) are the three main components of air traffic management (ATC). The long due transformation of air traffic surveillance from old technology to modern technology is about to accomplish by the deployment of satellite-based ADS- B (Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast) technology. This will extend current airspace coverage from limited continental regions (30%) to a global (100%) coverage. However, communication, being the other critical component of air traffic control is still far behind such a major modernization as well as not ready to accompany this global nature of future air traffic. In our recent work, we have elaborated the limitations of space based-ADS-B system and proposed an alternate better solution in the form of IP-based Space Air Ground Information Network (SAGIN). This paper highlights the limitations and challenges of existing technologies of air traffic communication and issues of independent CNS. The work explained that the SAGIN could not only provide the required modernization of air traffic communication but at the same time, it can provide a reliable, unified and global platform for an integrated CNS for an efficient and global ATC.