En Route Automation Modernization (ERAM) technology is the heart of  the National Airspace System (NAS), helping to advance our transition from a ground-based system of air traffic control to a satellite-based system of air traffic management. ERAM is utilized by air traffic controllers at all 20 en route centers in the Continental United States, providing the primary automation for air traffic control to monitor and guide flights throughout en route airspace. Starting in 2027, the FAA will expand the ERAM deployment to Honolulu and Anchorage en route airspace. ERAM receives, processes and displays radar surveillance and flight data, providing controllers with situational radar displays as well as tools and interfaces to interact with that data and each other.

ERAM is vital to air navigation, providing the foundational platform required for FAA to enable data sharing and air traffic control solutions via modernization programs such as System Wide Information Management, Data Communications and Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast.

ERAM provides benefits for users and the flying public by increasing air traffic flow and improving automated navigation and conflict detection services, both of which are vital to meeting future demand and preventing gridlock and delays.

ERAM increases capacity and improves efficiency in our skies. En Route controllers are able to simultaneously track 1,900 aircraft. Additionally, ERAM coverage extends beyond facility boundaries, enabling controllers to handle traffic more efficiently and automating flight hand-offs with NavCanada.

For pilots, ERAM increases flexible routing around congestion, weather and other restrictions. Real-time air traffic management and information-sharing on flight restrictions improves airlines' ability to plan flights with minimal changes. Reduced vectoring and increased radar coverage leads to smoother, faster and more cost-efficient flights.

For controllers, ERAM provides a user-friendly interface with customizable displays. Trajectory modeling is more accurate, allowing maximum airspace use, better conflict detection and improved decision making.  Two functionally-identical channels with dual redundancy eliminate a single point of failure. ERAM also revolutionizes controller training with a realistic, high-fidelity system that challenges developmental practices with complex approaches, maneuvers and simulated pilot scenarios that are unavailable using today's system.

Air traffic controllers and facilities are the backbone of safe NAS operations, transporting the flying public to their destinations efficiently. With ERAM, controllers benefit from increased collaboration and seamless data sharing between centers.

Point of Contact

Doug Swol
ERAM Program Manager (A)
(202) 510-6675