Space and space-related technologies are becoming increasingly important. What’s your view on the evolution of the space domain and what is the role of ESSP in this context?

Space technologies have become essential to many sectors of our economy, and aviation is a clear example. Modern transportation increasingly relies on space-enabled services to enhance safety, efficiency, connectivity and sustainability.

As aviation becomes more digital and connected, efficient data communications are becoming critical. Iris, the satellite-based datalink communication service, enables the secure exchange of operational information between aircraft and ground systems via satellite networks. By providing reliable connectivity beyond the reach of terrestrial infrastructure, Iris supports more efficient air traffic management operations and helps drive the digital transformation of aviation.

At the same time, EGNOS, the accurate and reliable navigation service, allowing safety-of-life services, is an integral part of European aviation. For more than two decades, ESSP has supported the provision of EGNOS services, helping transform satellite navigation into an operational reality across Europe. Today, EGNOS-based approach procedures are available at thousands of airports, improving accessibility, safety and operational efficiency.

ESSP’s role is to bring these space-enabled capabilities into operational use. By combining expertise in space systems, aviation operations and service provision, we help ensure that innovative technologies deliver the performance, reliability and safety expected by the aviation industry.

ESSP was created around the Navigation domain and a lot has happened since then. Can you provide us with an update on the new roles of ESSP today and what is expected for the coming future?

ESSP was created around Navigation and, more specifically, around the delivery of EGNOS services for aviation. This remains our core mission and our primary responsibility on behalf of the European Commission under EUSPA's mandate (EU Agency for the Space Programme).

At the same time, aviation is evolving towards a more integrated Communications, Navigation and Surveillance (CNS) services. Over the years, ESSP has progressively expanded its role across these domains and is certified by EASA for Navigation and Communications services.

By enabling secure datalink communications between pilots and air traffic controllers, Iris helps optimise air traffic management and supports the efficient handling of increasing traffic demand across European airspace.

In Surveillance, ESSP delivers a Space Weather service allowing to monitor the solar activity and its potential impact on GNSS service. In addition, ESSP is contributing to European initiatives such as Eurialo, exploring how space-based capabilities can complement existing surveillance infrastructures and support future ATM concepts.

The importance of understanding and mitigating the impact of solar and atmospheric phenomena on aviation operations is growing.

As these new services mature, ESSP’s focus is on ensuring they deliver tangible value to aviation stakeholders. ESSP's role is to bring the operational expertise needed to support their deployment, performance and long-term adoption.

How has the company evolved to seize these new opportunities and roles?

ESSP's evolution has followed the evolution of the market itself. As new opportunities emerged, we expanded our expertise while maintaining the same focus on operational excellence and service quality.

One of the most important developments has been the strengthening of our operational capabilities. Over the years, we have built a strong track record in the provision of safety-critical services, supported by robust processes, governance and operational expertise.

Collaboration has also become a key part of our evolution. Working at the intersection of space and aviation requires close cooperation with European institutions, industry partners and aviation stakeholders. This collaborative approach has enabled us to support the deployment of new services and contribute to the evolution of the sector.

At the same time, we have broadened our competencies in areas such as communications, surveillance, engineering, safety, cybersecurity and service management.

While the company has evolved considerably, our purpose remains unchanged: delivering trusted services that create value for users and support the future of aviation. Trust, reliability and operational excellence continue to be at the heart of everything we do.