Remote Tower
Groningen Airport Eelde is the first airport in the Netherlands to implement a Remote Tower system. Rather than managing air traffic from a traditional control tower on site, control is conducted remotely from Schiphol Oost, using cameras and sensors. The physical infrastructure, including a camera mast and technical unit, has been completed. This innovative technology marks an important step in the digitalisation, safety and efficiency of Dutch air traffic control.
We are ready!
This project is complete and will not be updated further. For questions, please contact the project manager.
Objectives
- Introduce an innovative and digital solution that enables remote air traffic control as an alternative to traditional control towers.
- Ensure that safety and service quality remain high even under changing operational or staffing conditions.
- Centralise air traffic control from Schiphol Oost, which allows multiple regional airports to be managed more efficiently with fewer resources
- Enable Groningen Airport Eelde and its partners to gain experience with remote tower technology as a foundation for broader implementation at other airports in the Netherlands
Project Details
Startdatum: May 2018
Completion: December 2024
Lead Partner: LVNL
Funding: CEF Transport
Project Results
- A complete technical design of the remote tower system was developed, including software, hardware, the camera mast at Groningen Airport Eelde and the Remote Tower Centre at Schiphol Oost.
- The camera mast was installed and connected, followed by successful testing phases and approval by the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate.
- Air traffic controllers, their assistants and technical staff received training through simulations, practical sessions and introductions at the Remote Tower Centre
With this innovative technology we are taking a first step in the digitisation of air traffic control and ensuring that we can conduct our operations as efficiently as possible. Safety is paramount, and that remains the case.
Role of Groningen Airport Eelde
Since 2016, Groningen Airport Eelde has contributed to the development of Remote Tower technology in the Netherlands. In the summer of 2016, LVNL conducted a first remote tower trial at the airport, using Eelde as a testing location to assess technical and operational feasibility. Since 2021, Groningen Airport Eelde has become the first airport in the Netherlands with a fully realised Remote Tower infrastructure.
