By Staff Reporter
The UAE has reinforced its position as a global aviation hub with the successful rollout of the Free Route Airspace (FRA) project, which has already delivered major efficiency and environmental gains since its launch in mid-2023, according to the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).
The FRA allows aircraft to fly user-preferred trajectories above flight level 355, replacing traditional fixed airways with more flexible routes. This system has saved more than 235,000 nautical miles in flight distance, over 11,000 kilograms of fuel, and nearly 35,000 kilograms of carbon emissions in just one year. More than 400,000 flights have benefited from the initiative so far.
Adoption has been swift, with more than half of all overflights now using FRA levels. The uptake underscores strong demand for flexible routing and highlights the project’s potential for greater benefits as additional airspace volumes are opened in future phases.
The project was developed through collaboration with neighboring air navigation service providers, operators, and international stakeholders to ensure seamless integration across regional skies. It forms part of the UAE’s broader Air Navigation Services Modernisation Programme, which includes investments in advanced technologies, AI applications, and infrastructure.
Supporting systems such as Performance-Based Navigation, Air Traffic Flow Management, and advanced surveillance tools further enhance airspace safety and efficiency. Together, these measures position the UAE as a leader in regional and global air navigation strategies aligned with ICAO’s sustainability and harmonisation goals.
The GCAA highlighted the FRA in its new report series, A Closer Look: Civil Aviation in the UAE, which provides analytical insights into the sector’s milestones, challenges, and future opportunities as the country advances toward smarter and greener skies.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
