On 9 September 2025, the European Commission officially adopted the Network Performance Plan (NPP) 2025–2029 through Commission Decision (EU) 2025/1780. This plan sets the framework for the Network Manager, in the context of the Single European Sky performance scheme during its fourth reference period (RP4).
The adoption takes place against a backdrop of persistent challenges with Air Traffic Control (ATC) performance in Europe. 2024 marked the worst year for ATC delays in more than two decades, and while 2025 has shown some improvement, ERA airlines have experienced only a modest 3 per cent reduction in delays since January. For ERA members, who operate thinner but vital routes, the impact of unreliable network performance is especially acute, as even small disruptions carry significant additional costs and operational consequences.
The NPP 2025–2029 aims to address these issues by establishing binding performance targets for the Network Manager, focusing on:
- Enhancing safety management systems to achieve higher maturity levels.
- Boosting horizontal flight efficiency to 4.15 per cent, thereby reducing excess miles flown and emissions.
- Reducing enroute and airport ATFM delays by up to 30 per cent, saving over 25 million minutes during RP4.
- Providing scalable, digitally enabled services without increasing financial burdens on airlines.
The plan is supported by three strategic priorities:
- Open digital infrastructure: Enhancing interoperability and data-driven decision making.
- Air-ground integration: Ensuring operational coherence between cockpit, ANSPs and the network.
- Seamless airspace organisation: Expanding the implementation of cross-border Free Route Airspace.
Without ambitious targets, smaller communities risk losing essential air links as airlines struggle with inefficiencies.
By 2029, the measures contained within the NPP are expected to save 6 million tonnes of fuel and reduce 20 million tonnes of CO₂. Importantly, it promises a more predictable and resilient Network, which in turn should support the viability of regional routes, deliver improved passenger confidence, and maintain Europe’s connectivity.
The regions of Europe cannot afford another decade of weak ATC performance. To sustain growth, competitiveness and connectivity, the Network Performance Plan must deliver not only in ambition but in concrete, measurable results.