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.