RuAviation

The implementation of a domestically-developed ACARS data transmission system in Russia’s civil aviation sector was a direct response to the challenges arising from the imposition of sanctions in 2022. ACARS – Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System – is a digital communications system designed for the exchange of short text messages between aircraft and ground stations via radio or satellite channels. This technology allows for the rapid transmission of data concerning the aircraft’s status, meteorological information, operational flight plans, and other pertinent details.

Prior to March 2022, ACARS services for Russian airlines were provided by foreign suppliers, specifically the Swiss company SITA and the American firm ARINC. The sanctions imposed by the US and the European Union curtailed access to ACARS, which had a negative impact on the efficiency of aircraft operations and resulted in financial losses for Russian carriers. In these circumstances, the development of a domestic equivalent became critically important.

The solution was a collaboration between the companies “Infocom-Avia” and “Azimuth.” “Azimuth” developed the necessary hardware and software, while “Infocom-Avia” acted as the information services operator. A network of ground stations was established rapidly, covering the main flight corridors: “north-south” and “west-east.” A data processing centre was established on Russian territory. According to Rostec, just over a hundred ground stations were required to achieve complete nationwide coverage. In 2023, there were a mere ten.

The real-time transmission of telemetry data enables an airline’s control centre to monitor the aircraft’s condition promptly. The flight crew receives up-to-date weather forecasts, necessary instructions, and other vital information, particularly in critical situations. The software is registered in the Russian software registry and allows for the implementation of additional services such as digital automatic terminal information service (D-ATIS) and digital clearance delivery (DCL), whilst the hardware and software systems created by “Infocom-Avia” and “Azimuth” provide controller-pilot data link communications (CPDLC).

Pilot operation of the Russian ACARS system commenced in 2023. The initial adopters were “Aeroflot” and S7 Airlines, followed by “Russia” and Red Wings. In 2024, the number of airlines utilising the domestic service more than doubled compared to 2023. According to the state corporation Rostec, the system processed over 28 million messages in 2024.

Rostec has now announced that “Aeroflot” was one of the first Russian carriers to enter into a commercial operation agreement with “Infocom-Avia” for the domestic ACARS service. This agreement signifies the maturity and reliability of the system developed, Rostec emphasised.

“The number of airlines connected to the domestic ACARS service is growing steadily,” notes Viktor Solomentsev, Director General of “Infocom-Avia.” “Last year, approximately two-thirds of Russia’s aircraft fleet exchanged information via this system. The use of ACARS significantly improves the operational efficiency of the airline’s fleet and flight safety.”

The Russian ACARS system has become a complete replacement for foreign equivalents, ensuring the continuity of critical processes in aviation. The successful implementation of the system demonstrates the independence of Russian industry in the development and implementation of advanced aviation technologies.