Communication technologies for smarter, more sustainable aviation
In late 2025, the EU-funded FCDI(opens in new window) project held a webinar focusing on its hyper-connected air traffic management technology, referred to as the hybrid communication network (HYCON). This technology is part of FCDI’s efforts to modernise how aircraft communicate with air traffic control and other systems, preparing the skies for the increasing demands of tomorrow’s air travel. Aircraft currently rely on older radio technologies and satellite links that are becoming overcrowded. As more planes fill the skies and drones become more common, there simply is not enough ‘space’ on these channels for all the necessary data. The FCDI project aims to solve this capacity crunch before it becomes a safety or efficiency issue.
Leveraging the hybrid network
HYCON – one of four solutions proposed by FCDI for enhanced communication infrastructure – allows aircraft to securely use multiple communication networks simultaneously, rather than relying solely on one type of connection. The other three FCDI solutions are a collaborative cybersecurity framework for communications, navigation and surveillance, a digital aeronautical communications system for efficient, high-bandwidth communication, and future communications infrastructure mobility and multilink technology improvements for safer and more interoperable aviation. The HYCON system is based on the idea that the future of aviation communication is not about replacing systems with a single new one, but rather creating a hybrid network. HYCON allows aircraft to simultaneously use existing, proven aviation radio technologies (legacy systems) and public air-ground links and networks, while still meeting the required safety, security and performance standards for air-ground communications. What this means in practice is that when legacy safety links are congested or unavailable, the system seamlessly switches to existing public links available on board aircraft without interrupting critical data flow.
Presenting the technology
Held on 25 November 2025, the FCDI webinar presented its hyper-connected air traffic management technology. The session began with an introduction of FCDI and the SESAR Joint Undertaking(opens in new window) – the EU initiative co-funding the project. This was followed by an overview of the key principles of HYCON and its functions. Subsequent presentations focused on the progress made in terms of standardisation, shared information on validation methods and initiatives, and discussed HYCON’s cybersecurity features. The webinar included discussions on potential next steps for FCDI and future initiatives, including close collaboration with the Airlines Electronic Engineering Committee and the International Civil Aviation Organization to ensure full interoperability. Also discussed were live flight trials to validate that HYCON meets the performance requirements for air traffic control communications. A video of the webinar as well as detailed information on the presentations and questions addressed can be accessed at this link(opens in new window). FCDI has also published a technical document(opens in new window) describing its air traffic management technology. The FCDI (Future Connectivity and Digital Infrastructure) project solutions directly contribute to delivering the Digital European Sky originally proposed by the SESAR Joint Undertaking for safer air traffic and less environmental impact. For more information, please see: FCDI project website(opens in new window)
