Alitalia to install Airbus’ new navigation system

Alitalia has become the latest single-aisle operator to benefit from Airbus' new air traffic control data link navigation system.

The Italian airline will install the new Airbus Future Air Navigation System B (FANS B) on 23 A321s. The airline became the third airline to adopt FANS B after Aeroflot and Finnair, when it purchased the system on 10 August. Alitalia is the first Airbus customer to purchase the associated wiring provisions for the installation of FANS B.

FANS B was developed to help speed up air-ground communications. It strengthens the link between aircraft crew and air traffic controllers by using a two-way data stream, allowing both parties to exchange written information regarding the navigation of the aircraft. FANS B works in addition to conventional radio systems and improves communications over remote areas, such as the ocean, where radio transmission is not available.

This can lead to a reduction in the number of air traffic delays that occur during a flight, which is especially beneficial in high density traffic areas such as Europe where many short-haul flights are operated in a small airspace.

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