How can air traffic control handle supersonic and hypersonic aircraft in civil aviation?

1 Current limitations

One of the main limitations for ATC to handle supersonic and hypersonic aircraft is the lack of suitable radar and communication systems. Current radar systems are designed for subsonic aircraft, which have predictable flight paths and speeds. Supersonic and hypersonic aircraft, on the other hand, can change their altitude, direction, and speed rapidly, making them harder to track and identify. Moreover, current communication systems rely on radio frequencies, which can be distorted or blocked by the shock waves and plasma generated by supersonic and hypersonic flight. Therefore, ATC needs to upgrade its radar and communication systems to cope with the higher speeds and dynamics of these aircraft.

2 Potential solutions

One of the potential solutions for ATC to handle supersonic and hypersonic aircraft is to use satellite-based surveillance and navigation systems, such as the Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) and the Global Positioning System (GPS). These systems can provide more accurate and real-time information on the position, speed, and altitude of the aircraft, regardless of their speed or altitude. Additionally, they can enable direct data link communication between the aircraft and the ATC, reducing the reliance on voice communication and enhancing the situational awareness and coordination. However, these systems also require high bandwidth, security, and reliability, which may pose technical and operational challenges.

3 Regulatory challenges

Another challenge for ATC to handle supersonic and hypersonic aircraft is the regulatory framework, which is based on the assumption of subsonic flight. For example, the current airspace classification and separation standards may not be adequate or appropriate for supersonic and hypersonic aircraft, which may need more flexibility and autonomy to optimize their flight profiles. Moreover, the current noise and environmental regulations may restrict or prohibit the operation of supersonic and hypersonic aircraft over land, due to the impact of sonic booms and emissions on the ground. Therefore, ATC needs to work with the relevant authorities and stakeholders to revise and harmonize the regulations and standards for supersonic and hypersonic flight.

4 Operational implications

A further challenge for ATC to handle supersonic and hypersonic aircraft is the operational implications, which may affect the workload, training, and performance of the controllers. For instance, ATC may need to deal with more complex and dynamic traffic scenarios, involving different types of aircraft with different speeds and capabilities. This may increase the cognitive and physical demands on the controllers, as well as the risk of human error and conflict. Furthermore, ATC may need to acquire new skills and knowledge to manage supersonic and hypersonic aircraft, such as understanding their flight characteristics, procedures, and requirements. Therefore, ATC needs to adapt its operational procedures and practices, as well as its training and education programs, to prepare for the integration of supersonic and hypersonic aircraft.

5 Future prospects

Despite the challenges, ATC also has the opportunity to benefit from the introduction of supersonic and hypersonic aircraft in civil aviation. For example, ATC may be able to improve its efficiency and capacity, by using the advanced technologies and systems that enable supersonic and hypersonic flight. Moreover, ATC may be able to enhance its service and satisfaction, by facilitating faster and more convenient travel for the passengers and the operators. Furthermore, ATC may be able to contribute to the innovation and development of civil aviation, by supporting the research and testing of supersonic and hypersonic aircraft. Therefore, ATC needs to embrace the change and the challenge, and collaborate with the industry and the academia, to ensure the safe and successful implementation of supersonic and hypersonic flight.

6 Here’s what else to consider

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