Loud and clear from orbit: Digital Sky Demonstrator enables first-ever satellite-based VHF voice communication

Partners of the SESAR JU's ECHOES project, have made history with the successful demonstration of satellite-based VHF voice communication between a pilot and an air traffic controller. The achievement marks a major advancement in efforts to extend safe and efficient air traffic management to the most remote and oceanic regions of the globe.

The demonstration took place over the Atlantic Ocean using Startical 's first in-orbit demonstrator satellite, IOD-1. During the test, a pilot exchanged real-time voice messages with an ENAIRE air traffic controller at the Canary Islands Area Control Centre, using standard VHF procedures. The system was tested under real operating conditions with support from several airlines, including Iberia, Air Europa and TAP Air Portugal.

Equipped with a deployable 3-metre VHF antenna and ADS-B surveillance, the IOD-1 satellite enables continuous communication and aircraft tracking, a game-changer for regions where real-time voice contact is currently unavailable. These capabilities support reduced separation distances, more efficient routing, and faster responses to in-flight situations.

The tests confirmed that the technology can be deployed without changes to cockpit or controller systems, requiring no new equipment or training. Integration with ground infrastructure was also successfully demonstrated, involving technical teams from Startical, ENAIRE and Indra. As part of the next phase, further tests are being carried out across the South Atlantic corridor, in collaboration with partners from Portugal, Brazil, Africa and Europe.

This milestone showcases the success of a public-private partnership that places Spain at the global forefront of technological innovation in air navigation," said Enrique Maurer, General Manager of ENAIRE.

A second demonstrator satellite, IOD-2, is scheduled for launch in the coming months. Together, these satellites form the basis of Startical's planned constellation of over 200 small satellites that will deliver global coverage for VHF voice and data communications, as well as ADS-B surveillance.

The outcomes of the ECHOES project will inform future international standards and contribute to the development of a more connected, scalable and sustainable global ATM system, in line with SESAR's Digital European Sky objectives.

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