The goal of the HISVESTA project was to develop a new generation altimetry module, suitable for fixed wing and rotary wing applications. This will result in altitude accuracy capabilities significantly improved over those currently available today. Air Data Computer and aircraft flight testing performed in the project demonstrated the effectiveness of the performance improvement.

The strategic objective of the project was to increase the safety in all in-flight situations, particularly low visibility situations, by improving the altimetry transducers used in Air Data Computers for aircraft applications. The project is relevant in auto pilot situations in the reduced vertical separation minima legislation of 1 000 ft, as well as in demanding manual flying situations such as darkness and low visibility.

Used in enhanced transponder applications, the project contributed to significantly increased reliability in altitude information for manual and automated Air Traffic Control systems. Aircraft Traffic Collision Avoidance Systems also benefited from more accurate and reliable altitude information, which will allow the automated avoidance instructions to be more accurate and effective. HISVESTA is the next step in solving the remaining RTD challenges after the successful HASTAC project in FP6.