The "SPICE" project - Synchronized Coordination for the implementation of performance-based navigation is part of the SESAR Program and refers to the implementation of performance-based navigation procedures (PBN) in four Cohesion Fund Member States (Cyprus, Portugal, Romania , Slovakia), equipping aircraft with PBN capabilities, implementing a navigation infrastructure and is coordinated by EUROCONTROL. Performance-based navigation (PBN) leverages the advanced space navigation (RNAV) capabilities of modern aircraft to enable efficient airspace design and systematization of air traffic routes.
The SPICE project has an estimated value of EUR 39,029,792, is 85% co-financed by the European Union through the European Connection Facilitation Program and will be implemented between February 2016 and December 2020.
In Romania, the SPICE project involves both airlines - Blue Air and Regional Air Services, ANSP - ROMATSA, the Romanian Civil Aviation Authority - designated as the competent authority for the approval / validation of flight procedures. It also involves the Romanian Airports Association as coordinator / representative for Romanian airports.
The main objectives of the AACR are: training staff to approve PBN procedures, equipping the validation aircraft with FMS (this objective is related to the purchase of a new aircraft for validation procedures) and purchasing software and hardware for approving PBN procedures.
In 2018, AACR initiated the training of staff for the approval of PBN procedures, signed the contract for the acquisition of the validation aircraft (to be delivered under the contract in April 2019) and began the procedures for purchasing software and hardware for approving PBN procedures.
By the end of the project, all objectives are expected to be completed as planned.