MATS is in the middle of the Mediterranean and represents a bridge towards North Africa. What are the key operational and technical challenges you face?

MATS manages a strategically critical airspace at the intersection of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. This requires seamless coordination with multiple FIRs operating under different regulatory and procedural frameworks. Key operational challenges include managing increasing airspace demand, mitigating the impact of adverse weather patterns—such as convective activity and strong upper-level winds—through dynamic Air Traffic Flow Management (ATFM) strategies, and ensuring service continuity amid evolving geopolitical developments. In light of these security dynamics, MATS remains vigilant in supporting regional stability through robust airspace management, cross-border cooperation, and harmonised procedures.

From a technical perspective, maintaining resilient Communication, Navigation, and Surveillance (CNS) infrastructure on a small archipelago presents unique challenges. Our surveillance strategy integrates primary and secondary radar with ADS-B, and we are advancing towards the implementation of MLAT systems to enhance coverage and redundancy. Additionally, we are strengthening our cybersecurity framework to mitigate risks associated with digital ATM systems, ensuring the resilience of critical infrastructure against emerging cyber threats.

You have recently visited the ENAV Remote and Digital Tower in Perugia. When talking about technology and innovation, what are the key programmes and initiatives MATS is developing?

MATS is actively exploring digital technology, with a strong focus on digital tower tools to enhance operational flexibility and resilience, particularly for contingency operations and potential future applications at Malta International Airport. We are closely studying the implementation of AI-driven automation in ATC decision-making, including real-time conflict detection and trajectory optimisation, to enhance safety and efficiency.

In the en-route sector, MATS is committed to deploying advanced Trajectory-Based Operations (TBO) and System-Wide Information Management (SWIM) capabilities to improve airspace predictability and efficiency. Our collaboration with ENAV on the Free Route Airspace (FRA) expansion aligns with SESAR objectives, optimising flight paths to reduce fuel consumption, emissions, and operational costs.

Furthermore, MATS is upgrading its automation systems with AI-driven decision-support tools for conflict detection and resolution, while integrating Performance-Based Navigation (PBN) procedures to optimise airspace utilisation and enable environmentally efficient flight profiles.

At a broader level, MATS leverages its strategic location to support international collaboration through CANSO, strengthening partnerships across Europe and North Africa. We actively engage in initiatives that enhance regional connectivity, interoperability, and resilience, ensuring that ATM operations remain robust in response to global security and trade challenges.

MATS and ENAV are partners in BLUE MED FAB. What is your view of the cooperation and the achievements in the FAB?

The BLUE MED FAB has been instrumental in optimising airspace management through cross-border coordination and harmonised operational concepts. A key milestone has been our successful implementation of Free Route Airspace (FRA), allowing aircraft to plan user-preferred routes across FAB airspace, leading to reduced track miles, fuel burn, and CO₂ emissions.

Interoperability between ATM systems remains a top priority, and MATS is working closely with ENAV and other FAB partners to enhance data sharing via On-Line Data Interchange (OLDI) and deploy automated coordination tools.

Beyond operational efficiency, BLUE MED FAB plays a strategic role in regional stability and airspace security. In collaboration with our partners, MATS is advancing surveillance capabilities by integrating space-based ADS-B, ensuring seamless coverage over remote and water sectors. Additionally, ongoing efforts to enhance cross-border coordination and workload balancing will further improve air traffic management efficiency across the Mediterranean.

What are MATS’ key priorities for the future at national and international levels?

At the national level, MATS is committed to enhancing service resilience through system redundancy, contingency planning, and workforce development. We are deploying next-generation ATM automation tools, reinforcing cybersecurity measures, and optimising ATC training methodologies through advanced simulation and AI-based adaptive learning.

Internationally, MATS is aligning with SESAR deployment priorities, focusing on TBO integration, tower system advancements, and enhanced ATFM measures to increase predictability and reduce delays. Our collaboration with ENAV remains critical in this regard, ensuring seamless interoperability and coordinated efforts for more efficient airspace management.

The transition towards a greener ATM system is a key priority, with continued investment in FRA expansion, Continuous Climb/Descent Operations (CCO/CDO), and improved cross-border coordination to optimise flight trajectories.

Furthermore, MATS will continue strengthening its role within the BLUE MED FAB by fostering closer operational and technical collaboration with European and Mediterranean ANSPs. Through CANSO and other international platforms, we aim to support strategic initiatives that enhance regional stability, interoperability, and resilience, ensuring a seamless and efficient airspace management framework across regional boundaries.