Edmonton named as location for new air navigation system

NAV CANADA has announced that Edmonton will be the location for its new air navigation system.

The new system — iTEC SkyNex ATM — is reportedly set to be a major milestone in air traffic operations in both Canada and Europe.

NAV CANADA says the system is supposed to improve efficiency and promote greener, more sustainable air travel.

The iTEC SkyNex system reportedly calculates flight paths, detects potential conflicts, and updates flight data in real time, which allows it to coordinate flights better.

“Today, we announce the first location of our next-generation aviation solutions—ensuring Canadian-tested technologies help shape global standards for safety, sustainability, and digital transformation,” said Mark Cooper, President and CEO of NAV CANADA.

“Together, we signal a new era of transatlantic collaboration by co-developing with seven other Air Navigation Service Providers. This critical step strengthens our innovation ecosystem and helps us meet the demands of future air travel, boosting our economic resilience.”

Edmonton was chosen as the location for the iTEC SkyNex ATM as it is one of the world’s largest non-oceanic Flight Information Regions, meaning the city sees a diverse mix of air traffic between domestic and international flights, and has a wide range of operating environments.

“A safe and secure aviation system plays an essential role in Canada’s economy, and in connecting Canadians, our communities and businesses,” said the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Transport and Internal Trade.

“At a time when transportation networks face growing pressures, Canada’s collaboration with European colleagues as part of the iTEC alliance highlights the power of cooperation between key international partners, reaffirms our country’s global leadership in aerospace innovation and is a clear sign of Canada’s readiness to meet the challenges ahead.”

iTEC SkyNex ATM has been developed alongside European partner Indra.