Aeropath’s vision for the future of flight procedure design
Hamish McKoy
Head of Aeropath
As the aviation industry enters a new era defined by complexity, innovation and global collaboration, the need for smarter, more adaptable flight procedures has never been greater.
At Aeropath, we see this moment not only as a challenge, but as an opportunity to lead.
In this article we explore how Aeropath is evolving its expertise to meet the future of aviation: through the transformation of Performance Based Navigation (PBN), regional collaboration, global standard-setting, and the development of next-generation talent.
The evolution of Performance Based Navigation (PBN)
Performance Based Navigation (PBN) is widely recognised for enhancing both safety and efficiency. It’s also an enabler for other techniques and operations such as continuous climb/descent operations (CCO/CDO), combined with efficient air traffic flow management (ATFM) – contributing to a more streamlined and optimised aviation system.
It’s no surprise that PBN is the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) highest air navigation priority and a key element of ICAO’s Aviation System Block Upgrades (ASBUs).
However, the global rate of PBN implementation has slipped behind ICAO targets. CANSO, through the PBN Workgroup has recognised a need for clearer direction for ANSPs, culminating in the Performance Based Navigation for ANSPs: Concept 2030 – outlining a path for states to catch up.
Aeropath has been at the forefront of addressing this gap – working with Airways New Zealand to embark on a nationwide rollout of PBN in 2012, with final network implementations in 2022. The Aeropath team has since leveraged New Zealand’s successful PBN programme internationally, designing and validating procedures across diverse environments from the mountainous landscapes of New Zealand to complex urban airspace in Asia.
PBN is continuing to evolve. As new navigation specifications become available and airports seek greater efficiency, Aeropath has positioned itself as a leader in supporting advanced applications such as RNP-AR and Satellite Based Augmentation System (SBAS) services. Such innovations aim to enable more reliable aircraft operations in challenging terrain, introduce new aircraft separation standards and enhance overall traffic flow management.
Designing for complexity: Multi-runway operations
While PBN has long been a cornerstone of modern airspace design, the future calls for a broader and more integrated approach. Aeropath has drawn on our expertise to apply PBN concepts and the ICAO SOIR (Simultaneous Operations on Instrument Runways) framework to support multi-runway operations at major international airports.
By harnessing our global reputation, strategic partnerships, and deep technical expertise, Aeropath is helping airports unlock greater operational efficiency and increased capacity through advanced procedure design. These projects demonstrate our ability to lead in areas where international standards are still evolving.
Concepts such as Trajectory-Based Operations (TBO), System Wide Information Management (SWIM), and Urban Air Mobility (UAM) are actively reshaping the boundaries of traditional navigation.
Trajectory-Based Operations – a new paradigm
TBO enables aircraft to follow optimised paths based on real-time data, improving predictability and reducing environmental impact. It also supports dynamic airspace management, allowing for flexible use of airspace based on demand and operational context.
Aeropath is preparing for this shift through its Aeronautical Information Management (AIM) modernisation programme – developing software to deliver up-to-date, multi-source information directly to aircraft, supporting the data-driven decision-making required for TBO.
While there’s still work to be done, such as transitioning to ICAO’s Flight and Flow Information for a Collaborative Environment (FF-ICE), Aeropath is laying the groundwork for a more connected, responsive airspace system.
The rise of Urban Air Mobility and Advanced Air Mobility
Aeropath is exploring how its expertise can support the safe integration of uncrewed aircraft into controlled airspace.
In 2023 we contributed to New Zealand’s first Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) trial in collaboration with Wisk, Airways and the Civil Aviation Authority. By applying established separation standards and offset PBN route design, we enabled an autonomous air taxi to operate safely alongside conventional aircraft.
This work is supported internationally with our membership on the ICAO Separation and Airspace Safety Panel, where we contribute to the development of collision risk models and separation standards that underpin future airspace integration.
Aeropath’s thought leadership on a global scale
Aeropath’s global influence extends beyond operations. We are proud to represent New Zealand on ICAO’s Instrument Flight Procedure Panel, driving changes to design criteria specialising in Helicopter Point in Space design. Our participation in global panels allows us to challenge the norm and propose alternative solutions leveraging our global expertise.
New Zealand’s agility and innovation give us a unique advantage in this space. What we lack in size, we make up for in our ability to move quickly, test new ideas, and lead by example.
Investing in the next generation
As procedure design becomes more data-driven and technology-enabled, the skillset required is evolving rapidly. Aeropath recognises that investing in talent is essential to sustaining industry growth and resilience.
To meet this need, we’re developing a structured training model combining technical instruction, mentorship and hands-on experience. Plans are underway for dedicated training spaces and formalised courses in 2026, such as PANS-OPs and advanced software and on-the-job training that will support both internal capability and broader industry development.
Conclusion: A future-ready vision
Aeropath’s journey reflects our commitment to innovation, collaboration and excellence. As the skies become more complex, we’re ready to embrace the fast-evolving ATM landscape – designing smarter procedures, enabling safer operations, and shaping the future of aviation.
From pioneering PBN implementation to advancing multi-runway operations, enabling emerging technologies like TBO and AAM, and investing in the next generation of talent – we’re not just responding to change, we’re helping define it. By combining deep technical expertise with global collaboration and a uniquely agile mindset, Aeropath is proud to lead the way in designing the future aviation system.
About the author
Hamish McKoy
Head of Aeropath
Hamish McKoy is an experienced aviation leader with over 20 years’ experience in the private and public sectors of the aviation industry. He has extensive experience leading teams in instrument flight procedure and airspace design, air traffic management, and aeronautical information management.
Hamish is responsible for the strategic direction of Aeropath in implementing new aeronautical information management and navigation procedure design services based on stakeholder requirements, both in New Zealand and across the globe. He ensures that Aeropath delivers its core aeronautical information management and flight procedure design services safely and effectively.
Hamish holds a Master of Science with Honours and a Commercial Pilot Licence, and has been the New Zealand member to the ICAO Separation and Airspace Safety Panel since 2018.
