ASBU B1-SWIM defines SWIM as a “a net-centric operation where the air traffic management (ATM) network is considered as a series of nodes, including the aircraft, providing or using information.” it goes on to say “The sharing of information of the required quality and timeliness in a secure environment is an essential enabler to the ATM target concept.”[1] ICAO Annex 3 defines what IWXXM capability is required at different time frames.
SWIM will use commercial off-the-shelf hardware and software to support a Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) that will facilitate the addition of new systems and data exchanges and increase common situational awareness.
The SWIM program will also enable interaction with other members of the decision-making community including other government agencies, air navigation service providers, and airspace users.
SWIM will help improve aviation safety through increased common situational awareness by allowing more decision makers to access the same information.
SWIM as a concept is essential to providing the most efficient use of airspace, managing air traffic around weather, and increasing common situational awareness on the ground.