In-flight information updates to the aviation sector on weather conditions and hazards, while simultaneously contributing to the observation of the atmosphere

PLANET aimed to provide in-flight information updates to the aviation sector on weather conditions and hazards, while contributing at the same time to the observation of the atmosphere thanks to in situ measurements (e.g. pressure, temperature and wind) sent from the aircraft to the weather agencies. Moroever, the system would target in-flight reporting of dangerous encountered weather conditions via the delivery of digital PIREPs (pilot reports) to other aircrafts, and other non-meteorological services such as in-flight messaging or tracking. Thanks to the “collaborative meteo concept” (i.e. fruition of weather services and provision of weather observation data at the same time), PLANET significantly increased the number of in-situ measurements made available to weather agencies, which were then provided only by commercial airlines serving a limited number of airports, to increase the European geographical area of measurements, due to new routes/airports target by the business and regional aviation, and to provide valuable and cost attractive weather information service to business, regional and general aviation pilots in return of their provision of in-situ measurements. The main objective of this project was to develop a first iteration of the PLANET service that will allow a demonstration to potential users.