2015 the IAA announced that a "Virtual Centre" had been introduced into service whereby ISAVIA operated VCCS (Voice Communications Control System) equipment at Gufunes and identical IAA operated VCCS equipment at Ballygirreen can function jointly, as a single "virtual centre", or independently. Long-range radar In July 2015, it was revealed the Irish government would purchase a new long-range radar system for the Irish Aviation Authority and the Irish Defence Forces (military) to monitor covert aircraft flying in Irish-controlled airspace, including military aircraft that do not file a flight plan and do not have their transponders switched on. Irish Minister for Defence Simon Coveney said the increased capability would provide greater surveillance of airspace over the Atlantic Ocean which the IAA has responsibility for. Traffic statistics During the summer, Shanwick will typically handle 1,400 flights per day. Approximately 80% of flights within the North Atlantic region fly through Shanwick airspace. Approximately 80% of flights within Shanwick airspace communicate directly with Shanwick using ADS-C and CPDLC. These systems permit removal of the voice aspect of communications. However, there is still a requirement for all aircraft within Shanwick to maintain HF contact with Shanwick Radio. See also Winstone radio station NATS References External links IAA ISAVIA ICAO NATS NAV CANADA Flight planning resource for the North Atlantic North Atlantic Skies - The Gateway To Europe Aviation in Ireland Aviation in Scotland Air traffic control centers Air traffic control in the United Kingdom Aviation in the United Kingdom