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                    Thematic Challenges

In July 2023, Engage 2 launched its first thematic challenge, which concluded with resounding success at the end of October. The initiative garnered significant attention, with a total of 21 submissions received from experts and enthusiasts alike.

The Thematic Challenges serve a dual purpose. Firstly, they present an opportunity to delve into areas not fully covered by existing programs, thereby broadening the scope of research within the ATM community. Secondly, they play a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of upcoming Engage 2 initiatives, including the highly anticipated calls for PhDs and Catalyst funding Projects.

The challenges, selected by the Engage 2 Awards Board, have been clustered into four main challenges:

    N1

    Climate impact analysis and mitigation for ATM-related non CO2-emissions

    It explores subjects related to environmentally sustainable flight paths and traffic management strategies.

    It focuses on:

    • Contrails and other non CO2-emissions
    • Observation, data collection, modelling
    • Metrics and assessment methods harmonization
    • Determining uncertainty for aviation non-CO2 impacts 
    • Incentives to greener ATM and model multimodal solution impacts
    • Business Models/Policy/Regulation
    N1

    Passenger-centric digital airport

    The subject revolves around the data-centric airport, analyzing passenger dynamics and movements within airport premises, and the implementation of virtual queuing systems.

    It focuses on:

    • Multimodality
    • Smart DSTs based on data, digitalization and automation (air and landside)
    • Virtual queueing to include operational considerations and business constraints
    • Integration of strategic and tactical planning (airport but also ATM)
    • Human-systems integration in the era of AI
    N1

    Disruptive ATM system modernization

    The theme involves a radical reconsideration of ATM architecture, with a deliberate avoidance of concerns related to evolution, change management, or transition.

    It focuses on:

    • “As a service” architecture
    • Business Models/Policy/Regulation
    • Quantum Computing as part of the digital ATM system
    • Data sensitivity
    • Human-systems integration in the era of AI
    • (Cyber-)Security
    N1

    Integration of new entrants

    This subject encompasses airspace categorization, flight strategizing, conflict resolution, and considerations related to business models, incentives, and regulations.

    It focuses on:

    • UFR mission description
    • New aircraft types and propulsion systems
    • Intermodal modes of transportation (for passengers as well as for cargo)
    • Business Models/Policy/Regulation
    • Integration of vertiports or other means of passenger/cargo loading places in the overall traffic system