En-Route ATFM Delay Dataset (AUA)

Please note that software release 20.0 of the Network Manager on 04 April 2016 introduced a change to improve the accuracy of the ATFM delay calculation for operational purposes. For more information on the change in methodology click here.

Data description

The en-route ATFM delay provides an indication of ATFM delays on the ground due to constraints en-route.

In Europe, when traffic demand is anticipated to exceed the available capacity in en route centres or at airports, Air Traffic Control (ATC) units may request the local Flow Management Position (FMP) to instigate an Air Traffic Flow Management (ATFM) measure, or regulation. Aircraft expected to arrive during a period of congestion are given ATFM delay at their departure airport, under the authority of the Network Manager, in order to regulate the flow of traffic into the constrained downstream en route sector or airport, thus ensuring safety.

The calculation of En-route ATFM delay is based on a well established and commonly accepted algorithm and has been in use as a commonly agreed proxy for en-route capacity shortfalls since 1999.

ATFM delay computation

The ATFM delays are calculated as the difference between the estimated take-off time calculated from the filed flight plan including updates and the calculated take-off time allocated by the central unit of ATFM.

The reason for the regulation is indicated by the responsible Flow Management Position (FMP).

The delay is attributed to the most constraining ATC unit.

Please note that the delays caused by READY to Depart (REA) messages and ATFM slot extensions were included in ATFM delays until NM release 20.0. As of 4 April 2016, delays due to REA messages and slot extensions are not included any longer which reduces the amount of computed ATFM delay.

Computation of traffic

The number of flights is based on ANSP boundaries (which are not necessarily coincidental with the FIR or geographical boundaries of the State).

Column naming and types

ANSP’s definition

The data at ANSP level is an aggregation of the values at Air Traffic control Unit Airspace (AUA) level.

The following table provides the details of each ANSP composition on 2020-09-01 .