LISBON, PORTUGAL – The International Centre for Aviation Innovation (ICAI) and the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Associations (IFATCA) today signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) at Airspace World in Lisbon, Portugal. The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration on the evolving future of regional and global air navigation services (ANS) and air traffic management (ATM), with a strong emphasis on a human-centric approach that balances human expertise and machine intelligence.
The agreement was signed by Ms. Helena Sjöström Falk, President and Chief Executive Officer of IFATCA and Mr. Patrick Ky, Chief Executive Officer of ICAI.
IFATCA and ICAI’s partnership will focus on key areas shaping the future of aviation such as increasing integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) with ATM systems, while adopting a human-centric approach by embedding operational expertise and human factors into the design, deployment and governance of new technologies.
It will also support dialogue on workforce recruitment, training, and retention, as well as regional initiatives aimed at improving eco-efficient operations, reducing emissions, mitigating weather-related disruptions, and enhancing cross-border connectivity in the Asia-Pacific region.
In addition, the partnership will promote information sharing on new concepts of operations and provide opportunities for direct air traffic controller participation in cutting edge experimentation and evaluation activities related to next-generation ATM solutions. Both organisations will also work together to share knowledge and best practices at regional and global forums, including initiatives under the framework of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Ms. Helena Sjöström Falk, President and Chief Executive Officer of IFATCA, said: “As air traffic volumes grow and operational environments become more complex, the integration of new technologies must prioritise flight safety and human-machine collaboration. This partnership with ICAI ensures that frontline operational expertise guides technological development from the very beginning, paving the way for a more resilient and sustainable global aviation system.“
Mr. Patrick Ky, Chief Executive Officer of ICAI, said: “Innovation is not just about developing new technologies; it is about deploying them safely and effectively where they matter most. By anchoring ICAI’s research capabilities with the real-world, frontline insights of air traffic controllers, we can accelerate the adoption of digital solutions like AI to optimise airspace capacity, reduce emissions, and directly support the workforce.“
About IFATCA
Founded in 1961, the International Federation of Air traffic Controller Associations (IFATCA) is a global body representing air traffic controllers worldwide. It furthers air traffic safety, influences the sustainable evolution of aviation, and embraces all members of its community. The apolitical federation provides guidance, representation, training, and other services to advance the status and professionalism of air traffic control. It collaborates with other international organizations to achieve mutual goals. For more information see IFATCA – One Sky | One Voice
About International Centre for Aviation Innovation
The International Centre for Aviation Innovation (ICAI), established in 2023, is a global aviation innovation hub dedicated to accelerating the development and adoption of advanced technologies across the aviation ecosystem. ICAI fosters international partnerships by bringing together governments, industry leaders, and research institutions worldwide to co-create solutions that address critical industry challenges, including capacity and manpower constraints and the need for decarbonisation. Its mission is to translate research into real-world operational capabilities, building a vibrant innovation ecosystem that ensures a safe, efficient, and sustainable future for flight in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. For more information on ICAI, please visit https://icai-aviation.org.
For Media Queries, please contact:
Nicola Ni Riada Communication and Industry Partner Coordinator IFATCA Nicola.niriada@ifatca.org
Nicole Chan Corporate Communications Manager, ICAI Nicole_Chan@icai-aviation.org
