Enhancing Airspace Operational Efficiency: GIS-Enabled Innovation in ALTRV Request Management

This paper presents the development and implementation of a cutting-edge Geographic Information System (GIS)-enabled application designed to transform Altitude Reservation (AL TRV) ¹¹Altitude Reservations are predefined blocks of airspace reserved for specific aviation operations at designated altitudes and times. They ensure the safe and efficient management of air traffic for unique or non-standard operations, such as military training missions, national defense, homeland security, intelligence, and emergency operations [1]. request management for Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs). In collaboration with NAV CANADA ²²As Canada's ANSP, NA V CANADA is a privatized, not-for-profit corporation that plays a critical role in managing one of the largest regions of airspace in the world [2]., Concept Solutions, LLC embarked on a multi-phase project to create a revolutionary software application powered by Concept Solutions' advanced GIS technology-AvenGIS. Developed to address the unique challenges of complex airspace environments, this system facilitates precise and efficient airspace management spanning many jurisdictions. If adopted by multiple ANSPs, this capability enables information sharing and collaboration for more effective coordination of military and civilian flight operations. Building on the AvenGIS foundation, Concept Solutions played a seminal role in the development of a world-class AL TRV request management capability within AvenGIS, collaborating closely with NAV CANADA to bring this innovative solution to life. This capability was then deployed by NA V CANADA as ‘NA VenGIS’ in October 2024, marking a significant achievement in air traffic management. The AvenGIS AL TRV management functionality provides comprehensive life-cycle management for AL TRV missions, automating the entire process from initial mission planning through approval, coordination, and archiving, replacing traditional manual workflows. This system enhances communication and coordination among internal and external stakeholders, including military project officers, Area Control Center (ACC) personnel, and other ANSPs. It improves the efficiency and safety of AL TRV missions both within national borders and across international boundaries. By incorporating oceanic airspace standards, the AvenGIS AL TRV functionality facilitates coordination in diverse airspace environments and strengthens collaborative airspace management with international ANSPs. The system also helps reduce operator workload, improve safety, and optimize both military and civilian mission coordination, setting a new benchmark for AL TRV processing in multinational airspace. As ANSPs worldwide transition toward Trajectory-Based Operations (TBO) to increase air traffic management efficiency, safety, and predictability, they can advance their TBO capabilities by integrating digital outputs from the AvenGIS ALTRV functionality. This integration supports optimized airspace use, enhanced mission coordination, and operational flexibility-all critical for a robust TBO framework. By enabling dynamic adjustments to airspace allocation and mission planning, the AvenGIS ALTRV functionality plays a key role in achieving an optimal demand-capacity balance, ensuring efficient use of airspace resources while maintaining high safety standards. Additionally, the AvenGIS ALTRV capability supports the Flexible Use of Airspace (FUA) concept by facilitating shared use, dynamic allocation, and enhanced operational efficiency. It promotes safety and flexibility through collaborative decision-making and transparency, ensuring airspace is managed effectively to meet varying operational demands. Looking ahead, the expansion of AvenGIS ALTRV management functionality to other ANSPs offers significant potential for broader adoption and impact. Embracing such innovation is essential for advancing operational efficiency, safety, and international collaboration in modern airspace management.