From continent to continent
The role of Avians is to provide air navigation services to domestic and international aircraft within the Icelandic Flight Information Region and at Icelandic airports. Air navigation services (ANS) are commonly divided into the following core services:
- Air Traffic Services (ATS)
- Air Traffic Control (ATC)
- CNS services, consisting of: Communication services (COM), Navigation services (NAV), Surveillance services (SUR)
- Meteorological services (MET)
- Aeronautical Information Services (AIS)
In addition, the following services are part of Avians’ operations:
- Airspace Management (ASM)
- Air Traffic Flow Management (ATFM)
- Data services (DAT)
- Flight Procedure Design (FPD)
Air Navigation Services
Avians employs approximately 270 people, including around 100 air traffic controllers, 20 flight data specialists, 40 aeronautical communication officers, 60 technical staff, and approximately 15 employees working in safety and quality, training and education, research and development, and management.
The cost of air navigation services is largely covered by user charges, including en-route charges and fees for domestic and approach services. For en-route charges and international air navigation services, a Joint Financing Agreement with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) applies. This agreement involves 23 member states and defines the funding framework for air navigation services within the Icelandic Flight Information Region. ICAO oversees the implementation of the agreement, and Avians and the organization hold annual information meetings with user representatives to review services and cost developments.
Over the North Atlantic, air navigation service providers maintain formal cooperation under the framework of the North Atlantic Systems Planning Group (NAT/SPG), one of ICAO’s committees. This forum determines how services are organized, monitors safety and quality objectives, and supports the development of new technologies and methodologies in air navigation. Airline associations and professional organizations actively participate in this work.