Book excerpt: This book, the first to cover the SES in depth, presents unparalleled insight into a versatile and complex undertaking which will determine the future of air traffic management in Europe. Its chapters analyse the progress as well as the shortcomings and setbacks encountered in the implementation of the SES policy objectives. With forward-looking contributions from over forty well-known experts working in virtually every arena of aviation, from airports and airlines to regulatory agencies and air law practice and scholarship, the book thoroughly explains what has been achieved so far, not only in theory but in fact.