Air Traffic Management in Poland in the Context of European Integration, Technological Challenges, and Market Changes
Purpose: This article offers a comprehensive assessment of Air Traffic Management (ATM) in Poland within the context of European integration (SES), technological modernization, and environmental and market pressures. It combines an institutional/regulatory overview with an empirical analysis of Poland’s RP3 performance (2020–2024) and the scale of unmanned operations, aligning findings with the roles of PANSA (PAŻP), NSA (ULC), EUROCONTROL/Network Manager, and ICAO. Design/methodology/approach: Triangulating a doctrinal review of EU/ICAO frameworks with institutional sources and a structured, indicator-based analysis covering en-route traffic (IFR, SU), ATFM delays (en-route and terminal), environmental efficiency (KEP/KES), terminal service units, safety rates (runway incursions; separation minima infringements). Methods include trend and gap analysis versus the national Performance Plan (PP), with a harmonized 2020–2024 window for ATM KPIs. Findings: Poland’s traffic and service units rebounded after 2020 but remained below PP baselines in 2022–2024, indicating structural/network-driven gaps rather than pure demand shortfalls. En-route ATFM delay peaked in 2022 and then stabilized but stayed above target; terminal arrival delay rose in 2024, largely driven by non-ATC factors. Environmental results were asymmetric: while terminal efficiency improved and ground-side pressure (taxi-out) intensified. Safety performance, measured as event rates, was maintained or improved despite higher traffic. Practical implications: Priorities include flexible capacity management (dynamic sector configuration, UDPP) and closer NM coupling; targeted mitigation of airside/apron bottlenecks (A-CDM, ground-planning tools) to convert terminal-area gains into punctuality; continued cross-border FRA maturation alongside ASM/FUA. These actions link policy intent with measurable improvements in delay, predictability, and environmental efficiency. Originality/value: The study integrates Poland’s institutional and technological trajectory with a disciplined, indicator-level reading of RP3 outcomes, connecting network-level constraints to local ground processes and incorporating the emerging drone ecosystem. It delivers decision-oriented evidence suited for regulators, ANSPs, and airport operators seeking SES-consistent performance gains.