REGIONAL airport operator Highlands and Islands Airports (HIAL) has chosen Inverness as the preferred location for its new remote towers control centre as part of its strategy to secure the long-term sustainability of its operations in Scotland, writes Karen Peattie.
The project, first announced in January, will change the way air traffic services are provided at seven HIAL airports by running activities in a centralised tower and surveillance centre, and modernising the way airspace is managed.
Digital tower technology is currently operating all over the world, including Germany, Ireland, New Zealand and the United States. Cameras offer air traffic controllers panoramic views of the airfield showing more detail than is possible with the human eye.
The ATM 2030 transformational change programme is said to be the largest of its kind within UK air traffic control. It will bring together air traffic management of Sumburgh, Dundee, Inverness, Wick John O’Groats, Kirkwall, Stornoway and Benbecula airports.
HIAL managing director Inglis Lyon said: “HIAL’s focus is, and will continue to be, on aviation service delivery. The airports it operates and the connections it provides are an important part of Scotland’s transport network and directly contribute to the economic prosperity and sustainability of communities, particularly in remote regions and the islands.”
Mr Lyons said the views of staff had been taken into account and that Inverness had emerged as their preferred option should relocation be required. He confirmed that 86 positions are “likely” to be impacted by the new centre but said there are no plans to reduce staff numbers.
Dates for the implementation of the project have still to decided but as remote towers technology becomes more prevalent, the timescales for delivery are estimated at eight to 10 years.
HIAL runs a network of 11 airports across Scotland, providing vital and sustainable transport links to connect remote communities in the Highlands and Islands and Tayside with the rest of the UK and Europe.
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