
Becoming an Air Traffic Control Officer (ATCO) is a rigorous and demanding process, requiring candidates to pass a series of aptitude, psychological, and physical assessments. The low success rate in training results in a shortage of ATCOs, leading to increased workload for those already in service. This, combined with rising air traffic volumes and the urgent need for sustainable aviation operations, underlines the necessity of enhanced automation in air traffic management. Furthermore, the transition from the AAA system to the iCAS system in the coming years is a key priority for LVNL. This research, grounded in the SESAR Master Plan 2025, explores automation opportunities within the iCAS system in comparison to the AAA system. The aim is to identify how automation can help address the challenges faced by ATCO’s, reduce their workload, and support more sustainable aviation operations, ultimately contributing to the efficiency and safety of air traffic management.
Graduated: July 2025