Boeing

A contract to explore modernizing ground-based air traffic management in Venezuela, awarded this week to a Boeing-led team, could be the first step toward development of a space-based architecture that will make flying safer and more efficient around the world.

The Venezuelan government, through funding provided by the U.S. Trade and Development Agency export promotion program, has chosen The Boeing Company, Innovative Solutions International, Design Operations Requirements Strategies International, and Grupo Efezeta C.A. of Venezuela to perform a modernization study for applying space-based solutions to the country's radar-based air traffic management system.

Under the terms of the contract, Boeing will assist in the development of the Communication, Navigation and Surveillance/Air Traffic Management (CNS/ATM) transition plan for Venezuela's Ministry of Infrastructure. The Boeing team will assess current system capabilities and recommend long-term solutions and a transition plan for moving from a ground-based navigation system to a satellite-based one and for implementing CNS/ATM technologies.

"This is a solid vote of confidence for our capabilities in the CNS/ATM arena," said Jim Albaugh, president, Boeing Space & Communications. "This represents a growth area where Boeing can apply its core capabilities to help ensure safe, modern and efficient air traffic management systems for generations to come."

The eight-month study, of which $450,000 is funded by the U.S. Trade and Development Agency, takes into account the anticipated increases in overall air travel volume and the system infrastructure capacity needed to ensure effective air traffic management. It also will provide the basis for the Venezuelan Ministry of Infrastructure's investment decision over the next 10 years.