About Us
Shaping the future of air traffic management through innovation and sustainability
2019 - 2022
AIR Lab: Driving the future of air traffic management
Launched in September 2019 by CAAS and Thales, AIR Lab was founded to develop an Open ATM system architecture. Co-located with Thales’ Digital Factory, the lab created the Open ATM Platform as a base for future innovations. Building on early successes, AIR Lab expanded in 2021 to develop the world’s first ATM Twin and explore concepts like the Digital ATCO and Green Aviation. By 2022, it began live trials using AI and Open Architecture to support lower-emission flight operations into Changi Airport.
2023-2024
Advancing green ATM and fostering regional collaboration
During 2023 and 2024, AIR Lab kept working on greener air traffic management, continuing its research into sustainable ATM concepts. The lab also deepened its collaboration with startups, delivering successful proofs of concept including in areas like advanced weather solutions. In parallel, AIR Lab started work on its Regional Collaboration Platform, aimed at enhancing innovation and cooperation across the Asia-Pacific region.
2025 & Beyond
Scaling regional collaboration and cross-border innovation
In 2025 and beyond, AIR Lab is deepening its regional engagement. Through the Regional Collaboration Platform (RCP), the lab is enabling cross-border collaboration and innovation with different ANSPs across the Asia-Pacific region. At the same time, AIR Lab continues to enhance and expand the platform’s capabilities to meet the evolving needs of these ANSPs. AIR Lab is also further embedding itself in the broader innovation ecosystem, working closely with startups on emerging technologies such as blockchain and this is only the beginning.