En Route Automation Modernization (ERAM)
Overview
The En Route Automation Modernization (ERAM) system architecture replaces the En Route Host computer system and its backup. ERAM provides all of today’s functionality and:
- Adds new capabilities needed to support the evolution of our National Airspace System
- Improves information security and streamlines traffic flow at our international borders
- Processes flight radar data
- Provides communications support
- Generates display data to air traffic controllers
- The display system provides real-time electronic aeronautical information and efficient data management.
- Provides a fully functional backup system, precluding the need to restrict operations in the event of a primary failure
- The backup system provides the National Transportation Safety Board-recommended safety alerts, altitude warnings and conflict.
- Improves surveillance by using a greater number and variety of surveillance sources
The open system architecture enables the use of future capabilities to efficiently handle traffic growth and ensure a more stable and supportable system.
Implementation
The FAA will deploy ERAM at 20 Air Route Traffic Control Centers, the Williams J. Hughes Technical Center, and the FAA Academy.
Step 1: 2006
Replace the current En Route computer backup system with Enhanced Backup Surveillance.
Step 2: 2007
Provide controllers real-time electronic access to weather data, aeronautical data, air traffic control procedures documents, Notices to Airmen, pilot reports, and other information with the En Route Information Display System.
Step 3: 2009
Replace the current En Route Host computer air traffic control with a fully redundant, state of the art system that enables new capabilities and requires no stand-along backup system.