A6 Steering Board launches 2026 agenda

The first A6 Steering Board meeting of 2026 took place in London, setting the strategic direction for an important year in the modernisation of European Air Traffic Management.

A central topic on the agenda was the continuation of SESAR beyond 2027. The Steering Board underlined that SESAR provides an essential contribution to Europe’s competitiveness and technological sovereignty through the further digitalisation of Europe’s sky. Ensuring the continuity of SESAR, with the necessary allocation of EU funding to support the execution of the European ATM Master Plan (from R&I-industrialization and deployment), is therefore of strategic importance for Europe’s economic strength, security, and resilience.

The Board confirmed that the modernisation of ATM must continue in close partnership with Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs), airports, airlines, and the Network Manager. The goals of the European ATM Master Plan can only be achieved through harmonised and coordinated implementation across Europe. A6 members stressed that the Single partnership model, based on a joint representation and active participation of operational Stakeholders and NM at governance, management and expert levels, has proven to work well. This approach has delivered real progress and should be further strengthened to ensure the consistent and efficient deployment of innovation.

The Steering Board meeting marked a strong start to 2026, confirming the A6 Alliance’s determination to continue driving forward the digital transformation of European ATM in close cooperation with institutional and industry partners, ensuring that Europe’s sky remains safe, resilient and future-ready.