Iris is making aircraft flights greener and more efficient, providing a safe and secure text-based data link between pilots and air traffic control (ATC) networks using satellite technology. The programme is developed under a public-private partnership between ESA and Inmarsat and will help relieve pressure on the aviation sector's congested radio frequency communication channels. Satellite communication systems such as Iris are among the essential enablers supporting next-generation air traffic management systems in Europe, in line with the Single European Sky Air Traffic Management Research (SESAR) programme, under the leadership of the European Commission.