avio
avio brings clarity to the high-stakes world of air traffic control. A radically simplified interface transforms pressure into confidence - showing how complex systems can feel intuitive, empowering and even joyful.
avio brings together key features in a consistent system solution to make the process of coordinating take-offs and landings safer and more efficient. Air traffic controllers are responsible for the coordination of the air traffic around the airport area. The focus was on improving situational awareness through an intuitive user interface.
Concept
Previously, controllers had to work with six separate systems, each with its own input devices. This led to unnecessary changes of view and a additional cognitive load.
The new interface combines all relevant information into one coherent interface, allowing the 49-inch touchscreen to be operated with a single touch pen.
Primary information is always visible, while secondary and tertiary information can be displayed as required with just a few tabs. The development was user-centric and also was iteratively tested and optimized in close cooperation with air traffic controllers.
Research
The development was grounded in an extensive research process involving following methods. This multi-layered approach ensured that every design decision was validated against real user needs.
3 x
On-site observation of ATC's during live operations
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3 x
Contextual interviews and task walkthroughs
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6 x
Stakeholder interviews (DFS, technican, pilot...)
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2 x
Scenario interaction mappings with eyetracking
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5 x
Iterative user testing of interactive prototypes
Situational Awareness
A clear and well-structured interface helps to provide the most important information at the right time. Incorrect entries are avoided and attention is directed in a targeted manner. Tactile feedback also plays a central role in this. The system remains subtle, but provides precise feedback at crucial moments.
Haptic Feedback
Interaction takes place via a pen with integrated haptic feedback. Every successful interaction is confirmed haptically so that the controller can be sure that their action has been carried out without the need for constant visual checks. Warnings are signaled by strong vibrations, while confirmations can be felt gently. This supports rapid reaction to air traffic and increases safety.
Interaction
By merging all systems into a single user interface, the system becomes more efficient and intuitive to use. All relevant information can be controlled using a single input device, which eliminates the need to switch between different interfaces and simplifies work processes.
The arrangement of the displays is based on the air traffic controller's mental model, which is why interactions are directly linked to the objects. For example, the air situation is displayed at the top and the ground situation at the bottom. The mental model also supports status assignment, existing processes are kept, but landing clearance, for example, is assigned with an intuitive downward swipe, while a new stripe concept enables a clear representation of the aircraft both on the ground radar and in the air radar.
Visualisation
The interface is based on clear color coding and an intuitive arrangement of content. Uniform status icons and colors ensure better readability. Important notifications are visually highlighted without overwhelming the user with unnecessary information. Blue highlights information that is relevant. Orange highlights reports that require special attention. Red indicates critical warnings and emergencies. The SF Pro font with easy-to-read glyphs significantly improves readability.
The design is built with Figma components to showcase every possible state of an element for every situation. This approach ensures consistency across the entire interface while allowing flexibility for different use cases.
Conclusion
avio - touch and go offers a modern and integrated solution for the workplace of tower controllers. Intuitive operation, support for situational awareness and haptic feedback make it easier to control air traffic and increase safety.
We are greatful to be nominated at the UX Design Awards 2025 and the German Design Newcomer Award 🏆
Documentation
German full-version:
