International Civil Aviation Organization

World-wide CNS/ATM Systems

Implementation Conference

Rio de Janeiro, 11 – 15 May 1998

WW/IMP-WP/44

27/3/98

Item 2

Agenda Item 2:	Institutional issues

2.1	Organizational structures at the national level, including private sector participation

2.2	Co-operative and sub-regional approaches, including multinational air navigation facilities and services

DEFINITION OF THE PLACE AND ROLE OF THE ATM SYSTEM

IN A SINGLE AIR NAVIGATION SYSTEM

(Presented by the Russian Federation)

Action Paper

Summary

The paper proposes introducing the legal concept of an "air navigation system" and defining the status and principles of the co-ordination of the elements thereof, the main one of which is the ATM system.

1.	Introduction

1.1	Ensuring the required level of safety and efficiency of air traffic requires close co-ordination in the development of the ATM system, airborne equipment, meteorological and aeronautical information systems, search and rescue services and technical support systems. As a rule, these systems and services fall within the competence of different organizations and departments and the co-ordinated utilization of these systems and services presents considerable difficulties.

1.2	In a number of countries where the problem of co-ordinating the elements within the framework of an air navigation system has been solved, favourable conditions have been created for the modernization of the ATM system, taking into account all other important components on the basis of the validated technical architecture of the air navigation system which contributes to the process of harmonization and integration of local systems.

2.	Defining the Concept And Status of an "Air Navigation System"

2.1	It is proposed that the concept of an "air navigation system" be defined as follows:

"The air navigation system is an integral part of the air transport system and it includes: the airspace structure and network of airways; the organizational and functional structure; ground, airborne and space communications, navigation and surveillance facilities; air traffic management systems; meteorological support systems; aeronautical information systems; search and rescue systems; technical support systems; and specially trained personnel acting in accordance with established rules and procedures".

2.2	In order to define the status of the "air navigation system" and the main principles of the management thereof and to implement co-ordination, ICAO should formulate recommendations taking into account such factors as:

a)	defining more precisely the criteria for evaluating the activities of the ATM system and the air navigation system as a whole;

b)	defining the rights and legal liability of the corresponding units, under whose authority the main elements of the air navigation system fall; and

c)	ensuring effective forms of interface between ATM system units, airspace users, etc.

3.	Conclusion

3.1	ICAO is invited to introduce the concept of an "air navigation system" and to develop the hierarchical structure of air navigation support for the purpose of the gradual transition from unco-ordinated sub-systems to a single integrated air navigation system.

– END –