CANSO Operations Programme: Transitioning to the Future

As the aviation industry continues to evolve, so too must the way we work together. The CANSO Operations Programme is entering into a new phase, one that reflects our collective priorities and the ambitions set out in the CATS CONOPS. With OSC Connect 2026 to be held in Abu Dhabi, hosted by GCAA, we will officially transition into a more focused, collaborative, and future ready structure.

Why the Change?

The existing Operations Programme has made significant progress through its working groups and task forces, addressing critical issues such as SWIM toolkits, SWIM webinars, MON document, and Space Based Voice Webinar. However, as operational challenges grow more complex, from the integration of new entrants like AAM and space operations, to digital transformation and resilience, it became clear that a restructured programme was needed to drive execution and deliver practical outcomes

What’s Changing?

The new structure builds on existing strengths while introducing new expertise focused workgroups. Current groups such as the ATFM/A-CDM, Airspace Optimisation workgroup and Environmental workgroups will continue their work. At the same time, new and re-aligned groups will take shape to address emerging priorities:

• AAM Integration Workgroup – advancing readiness and guidance for regional and global AAM integration;
• Space Operations Workgroup – shaping collaborative approaches to Space Transportation Operations with industry partners;
• SWIM & FF-ICE Implementation Workgroup – enabling digital transformation through practical, interoperable solutions;
• Digital Towers Task Force – updating and expanding guidance to lifecycle management and contingency planning;
• Operational Technology Workgroup – cataloguing, assessing, and promoting automation and decision support tools;
• Airspace Optimisation Workgroup – continuing to advance efficient, flexible use of airspace;
• Environment Workgroup– sustaining global efforts on environmental responsibility and climate impact;
• TBO Readiness Task Force – delivering webinars and a global roadmap to prepare ANSPs for TBO; and
• CANSO Operational Messaging Platform for ATFM Sharing & Synchronisation (COMPASS) Workgroup – enabling information sharing and synchronization through the new global platform.

**Note: The TBO Readiness TF will be comprised of participants of the SWIM and FF-ICE Implementation workgroup, AOWG, CNSWG, ATFM/A-CDM workgroup.

More information can be found on Operations – CANSO

A Call to Action

We are now seeking nominations for Chairs, Co-Chairs, and Members to lead and participate in these groups. This is your opportunity to:

• Shape the future of global ATM operations.
• Collaborate with peers worldwide to deliver practical solutions.
• Advance safer, more efficient, and sustainable skies.

Nominations are open until 31 October 2025 and can be submitted via your organisation’s focal point. Chairs and Co-Chairs will play a vital leadership role in agenda setting, meeting facilitation, and ensuring delivery of outcomes.  Your Focal Point can submit your nomination via the Focal Point Zone – CANSO.

Looking Ahead

The transition of the Operations Programme is more than a structural change, it is a shift toward execution, innovation, and stronger global collaboration. Together, we will create a programme that not only responds to today’s challenges but also anticipates tomorrow’s opportunities, equipping CANSO and its members to shape the skies of the future.