A proposed ‘Combined Sky’ framework could revolutionise air traffic management by integrating regulatory procedures, safety standards, and operational coordination
A new ‘Combined Sky’ framework between India and the UAE could redefine air traffic management by creating a seamless aviation corridor that integrates regulations, safety standards, and operational coordination, reported aviationbusinessme.com.
- Enhancing Efficiency with an Integrated Airspace
If successfully implemented, this initiative could reduce delays, optimise fuel usage, and enhance operational efficiency on high-traffic India-UAE flight routes. A recent Observer Research Foundation (ORF) and UAE Embassy report suggests that doubling airline capacity on these routes could save Indian consumers up to $1.05 billion.
Currently, flights between India and the UAE must navigate different regulatory frameworks. Airports such as Dubai International (DXB), Indira Gandhi International (Delhi), and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International (Mumbai) operate under distinct slot allocation and air traffic control (ATC) regulations, causing delays and inefficiencies.
A ‘Combined Sky’ agreement could streamline approvals, enhance safety, and integrate ATC systems to create a unified airspace network.
How a Virtual Aviation Corridor Would Work
The proposal includes an India-UAE Virtual Aviation Corridor, which would:
- Enable real-time coordination of flight paths
- Implement automated slot allocation
- Harmonise air traffic control procedures
- Reduce congestion and optimise routing
High-density Dubai-Mumbai and Abu Dhabi-Delhi routes could benefit significantly, cutting flight times by up to 10% and reducing fuel costs and carbon emissions.
Economic and Operational Benefits
By unifying airspace, airlines could:
- Save millions of dollars annually in operational costs
- Reduce fuel consumption through optimised flight paths
- Expand cargo operations, improving supply chain efficiency
- Boost tourism and trade between India and the UAE
The ORF report highlights that seamless airspace coordination could also enhance exports from India to Europe and Africa, particularly for high-value goods like pharmaceuticals, electronics, and perishables.
Challenges to Implementation
Several obstacles remain, including:
- Regulatory differences between India’s DGCA and UAE’s DCAA
- Technological integration of air traffic control systems
- Data security and cybersecurity concerns
- Geopolitical considerations related to data sharing and sovereignty
Lessons from Europe’s Airspace Integration
The EU’s Single European Sky (SES) initiative provides a model for phased airspace integration. SES reforms have saved the EU economy up to €37 billion annually, with key benefits including:
- Automated slot allocation
- Real-time data-sharing
- Incremental regulatory alignment
A similar phased approach for India and the UAE could begin with high-traffic routes, before expanding to a fully integrated airspace.
According to the ORF report, “By acting now and coordinating closely, the UAE and India can usher in a new era of shared prosperity and connectivity.”
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