The DASC conference venue, located between the San Diego Airport and the marina bay, with airplanes taking off on one side and navy carrier ships docking on the other side. Very fitting for an Avionics Systems conference!

Collins Aerospace has successfully presented its latest advancements in 3D networking and orchestration technologies, developed under the ETHER project, at the prestigious 43rd Digital Avionics Systems Conference (DASC) held in San Diego, California, during 29 September – 3 October 2024. Three key papers were presented that highlight Collins’ research in aeronautical 6G networks.

The three papers, presented by Dr. Fadhil Firyaguna, were :

  • Chih-Kuang Lin, Fadhil Firyaguna, Hamada Alshaer, Philip Harris, “Intelligent Message Routing and Optimization for Aircraft in 6G Terrestrial and Non-Terrestrial Networks” – DASC 2024, October 2024. (Best of Session Award)
  • Fadhil Firyaguna, Chih-Kuang Lin, Hamada Alshaer, Philip Harris “Graph-based Handover for Future Aeronautical 6G Integrated Terrestrial and Non-Terrestrial Networks”
  • Hamada Alshaer, Fadhil Firyaguna, Chih-Kuang Lin, Philip Harris “Software-defined High-Altitude Platform Relays in Integrated Terrestrial-HAP-Satellite Networks” – DASC 2024, October 2024.


The highlight of the event was the Best of Session Award for the paper on “Intelligent Message Routing and Optimization for Aircraft in 6G Terrestrial and Non-Terrestrial Networks.” This work captured the attention of the Aeronautical Communication Systems and Networks community, particularly those focused on 6G Non-Terrestrial Networks for UAV and aeronautical applications. The paper introduces innovative routing and optimization techniques for aircraft communications, contributing to seamless global connectivity across terrestrial, high-altitude, and satellite networks.

Presentation of the Best of Session Award to session presenter Dr. Fadhil Firyaguna (Collins Aerospace)

Collins’ contributions at DASC reflect the ETHER project’s broader goals of advancing 3D network integration, resilience, and message control. The presented papers emphasize novel solutions for managing aeronautical communications across heterogeneous network layers, enhancing global flight operations at all altitudes. The 3D networking concept, integrating terrestrial and non-terrestrial platforms, captivated the audience, leading to further discussions about key aspects such as LEO satellite constellations, antenna connectivity, and seamless operation.

Demonstration of simulation of Aeronautical 6G Integrated Terrestrial and Non-Terrestrial Networks

The engaging presentations, supported by a simulation framework and a short video, showcased real-world applications of these advanced concepts. Dr. Firyaguna and the Collins team were met with numerous acknowledgments for the quality and relevance of their work, sparking meaningful discussions with attendees throughout the conference.

We are proud of this recognition and the continued success of the ETHER project, as our innovative research continues to shape the future of global aeronautical communications.