ITA Airways will introduce the European Space Agency’s Iris technology on its flights, as part of efforts to modernize Air Traffic Management (ATM) in Europe. The Iris programme is led by Viasat and uses advanced satellite technologies to improve airspace operations.
The service is supported by ESSP, which holds EASA certification for providing Iris services. Nineteen leading Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs) have joined the pre-commercial phase, set to conclude by the end of 2025. The commercial rollout will begin in 2026, aiming to include 28 SES 2+ ANSPs by 2032 and support over 1,100 Iris-capable aircraft across Europe.
Iris aligns with the Single European Sky initiative that seeks to reform ATM across Europe. ITA Airways will be among the first airlines to deploy this capability, initially equipping four Airbus A320neo aircraft.
According to ITA Airways CEO and General Manager Joerg Eberhart: “The introduction of Iris technology on our aircraft represents a significant step forward in enhancing operational efficiency and environmental sustainability.
“At ITA Airways, we are deeply committed to supporting the modernization of European airspace as part of the roadmap toward the Single European Sky, and to playing an active role in the advancement of Air Traffic Management. Through this partnership with Viasat, ESA, and ESSP, we will improve flight punctuality, optimize fuel consumption, and further reduce emissions.
“This initiative perfectly complements our ongoing fleet renewal programme, which already comprises 69% of new-generation aircraft — delivering greater value to our passengers and contributing to a more sustainable future for air travel in Italy and across Europe.”
Iris enables initial 4D trajectory-based operations that allow airlines to share real-time flight information with ground systems. This supports avoiding holding patterns, selecting optimal routes and altitudes, and using continuous climb or descent paths. The system uses both VDL2 data link and SATCOM methods powered by Viasat’s SwiftBroadband-Safety connectivity platform.
Joel Klooster, SVP Flight Safety and Advanced Air Mobility at Viasat said: “We’re thrilled to see Iris taking to the skies on ITA Airways’ flights across Europe. ITA has been committed to the goals of the Single European Skies initiative for a long time. It’s been fantastic to work so closely with them, as well as our partners ESA and ESSP, to bring the benefits of Iris’ next-generation technology to more flights and passengers across Europe. We look forward to seeing success with these flights: and to rolling out the programme across more routes and airlines soon.”
Laurent Jaffart from ESA added: “With the addition of ITA Airways to the Iris service, another milestone has been achieved in supporting the European Commission’s Single European Sky vision for an efficient and environmentally friendly European airspace. The adoption of Iris is a key space-based solution for European Air Traffic Management, which will – in turn – pave the way for global use. By supporting Iris through an ESA public-private partnership, we are delighted to combine our expertise with those of leading aviation actors across the continent and beyond it.”
Charlotte Neyret from ESSP stated: “We are thrilled that ITA Airways is now using the Iris Service, marking a major step forward expanding operations across Europe. This is a strategic milestone that highlights the increasing pace of adoption and the growing relevance of Iris in European aviation. Having an additional leading European airline onboard strengthens the network, extends Iris usage across more airspace, and confirms the growing trust in the service’s reliability and impact. It’s a win that reflects both progress and potential, opening new doors for growth throughout region.”
The program aims not only at improving efficiency but also at reducing fuel burn and emissions—key steps towards net zero targets within aviation.
In recent years,the program has expanded globally,and plans are underway for assessment outside Europe.By 2028,Iris could enable optimized flight operations worldwide,making flights greener while managing congestion.
ITA Airways intends operating these upgraded flights from Milanand Romeacross variousEuropean destinations.The company continues emphasizing customer service,sustainability,and fleet modernization strategies.
