Modernization of air traffic control (ATC) systems has been underway globally, with countries working to enhance safety, airspace efficiency, and environmental sustainability. Large-scale programs are incorporating satellite navigation, digital communications, and automation. These advancements offer valuable lessons and opportunities for East African states, which are beginning to modernize their own ATC infrastructure to meet growing aviation demands.
ADS-B (Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast)
Some countries have fully deployed ADS-B Out, requiring commercial aircraft to broadcast GPS-derived position data. This technology enhances real-time tracking, traffic separation, and situational awareness. For East Africa, especially in remote or oceanic regions, ADS-B could be a cost-effective alternative to ground radar, improving surveillance in sparsely covered areas like northern Kenya, South Sudan, and Somalia.
Data Communications (Data Comm)
- Adoption of digital messaging systems to replace traditional radio communications, significantly reducing clearance times and errors. East African hubs like Jomo Kenyatta International (Nairobi) or Entebbe International (Uganda) could benefit from similar implementations to streamline aircraft movements and reduce delays during peak operations or poor weather.
Performance-Based Navigation (PBN)
- PBN can help optimize routes between key regional cities such as Addis Ababa, Nairobi, Kigali, and Dar es Salaam, lowering operational costs for airlines and reducing emissions.
Remote and Digital Towers
- This concept is highly applicable to secondary airports like Kisumu (Kenya), Mwanza (Tanzania), or Bahir Dar (Ethiopia), where traffic volumes may not justify a full-time control tower but still require safe oversight.
Technologies Driving the Future
Several innovations are at the heart of ATC modernization:
- AI and Predictive Tools: AI helps predict arrival bottlenecks and optimize sequencing. ATC centers could benefit by integrating AI in busy hubs like Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa.
- Space-Based Surveillance: Aireon’s satellite ADS-B network enables real-time global tracking, especially over oceans and remote areas. This technology is ideal for East African oceanic airspace over the Indian Ocean, as well as low-infrastructure zones in Sudan and northern Kenya.
- Cybersecurity: As digital systems expand, robust cybersecurity protocols are critical. Adoption of ICAO-recommended security frameworks to protect against data breaches and cyberattacks.
