ECHOES project marks global milestone in satellite-based VHF communications

The SESAR JU-supported ECHOES project has reached a major milestone in the evolution of air traffic management, demonstrating for the first time the transmission of VHF data communications from space in real time. This achievement marks a significant step towards extending seamless communications to oceanic and remote regions, where conventional ground-based systems fall short.

Led by Startical-a joint company between ENAIRE and Indra-the demonstration was carried out using two low-Earth orbit satellites launched as part of the ECHOES project. During a functional test over the South Atlantic, an Air Europa aircraft successfully established a satellite-based data link with the Gran Canaria control centre, exchanging standardised messages with air traffic controllers. This follows an earlier breakthrough in May 2025, when Startical completed the world's first real-time voice communication via satellite using VHF signals.

The ECHOES project, co-funded by the European Union's Connecting Europe Facility (CEF Transport) and managed by the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA), is coordinated by SESAR Joint Undertaking. It brings together air navigation service providers including ENAIRE, NAV Portugal, ASA, ASECNA, and DECEA, alongside airlines such as Iberia, TAP Air Portugal, Plus Ultra, and Vueling, to validate the operational potential of satellite-based communications.

By enabling the use of predefined digital messages, the technology enhances aviation safety and efficiency, reducing controller's workload and improving clarity in exchanges. It also allows airlines to send and receive operational messages mid-flight, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional communication methods. For ANSPs, the solution provides a global coverage layer without the need for extensive ground infrastructure.

Currently, transoceanic flights are constrained by limited communication capabilities, requiring wider aircraft separation and reducing airspace capacity. The ECHOES project aims to overcome these limitations, enabling aircraft to operate with the same level of safety and efficiency as in continental airspace. This will support the design of more direct and sustainable flight paths, reducing fuel burn, operating costs, and CO₂ emissions.

"With the transmission of voice and now also VHF data from space, Startical opens a new era in global air traffic management, offering coverage where today communication does not exist," said Juan Enrique González Laguna, CEO of Startical.

Beyond its technological demonstration, ECHOES is laying the groundwork for future international standards in satellite-based aeronautical communications. It also supports the development of Startical's planned constellation of over 200 satellites, designed to deliver continuous global coverage.

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