EasyJet Completes Fleet-Wide Rollout Of Advanced Navigation Software

EasyJet has completed the installation of modern navigation software on 54 aircraft in its A320 and A321 neo family, marking the end of a multi-year retrofit programme aimed at improving operational efficiency and air traffic coordination.

The Fans-C (Future Air Navigation System-C) platform shares real time aircraft trajectory data with air traffic control (ATC) providers, enabling more precise route calculations. The system also allows ATC instructions, such as altitude changes, to be sent via text rather than radio, reducing the risk of miscommunication and improving response times.

All newly delivered Airbus aircraft to the airline are fitted with the technology at the point of manufacture. EasyJet reports that the use of Fans-C since 2019 has resulted in fuel savings of 334 tonnes.

Chief operating officer David Morgan described the technology as essential for airspace modernisation and key to reducing fuel use, emissions and noise. He said that airspace reform and more direct routing will be required to maximise the environmental and operational benefits.

The UK Department for Transport and the Civil Aviation Authority are working to establish a UK Airspace Design Service, with a launch planned before the end of the year. The initiative will involve aviation specialists collaborating with airports to update flight corridors and reduce congestion.

French ATC disruption was cited by EasyJet as the primary cause of delays this summer. The wider sector also faced disruption following a UK ATC failure on 30 July, which was linked to a radar-related issue and resulted in more than 150 flight cancellations.