23 Norwegian airports to be remotely operated with Indra’s cutting-edge air traffic control system in Avinor’s Remote Tower Centre

Indra plays a pivotal role in the extension of Avinor’s Remote Tower Centre (RTC) in Bodø, Norway, owned and operated by Avinor, the Norwegian air navigation service provider. Currently, the centre manages 11 regional airports, a number set to grow to 15 by March 2025 with the completion of the first phase of Avinor’s remote tower program. After this, an additional seven new airports will be added. The contract also includes an installation at the new Bodø airport that is under construction.

Avinor’s RTC has 16 working positions, so the project extension undertakes the implementation of multiple remote tower operations, which it means that each operator will be able to control up to three airports from the same working position. They use Indra’s InNOVA air traffic control system which provides a unique single and fully integrated display with all required air traffic and airport control functions, including air traffic situation display, electronic flight strips and meteorological information. A supervisor will oversee the planning and allocate airports to the different working positions, ensuring seamless and efficient operations.

Multiple remote tower operations were developed and validated by Avinor and Indra in 2019 as part of EU’s PJ05 SESAR Remote Tower project. Furthermore, Avinor will be one of the first air navigation service providers in the world to go operational with the concept.

Indra also provides the GAREX Voice Communication Control System, used by Avinor to ensure reliable communication with pilots and ground personnel.

The adoption of remote and digital towers, in which airports are managed from a digital tower centre, is swiftly transforming the air traffic management industry. Avinor is at the forefront in the application of this innovative technology. With Norway’s numerous low-traffic airports, Avinor’s Remote Tower Centre is delivering substantial cost and operational benefits. They can offer more flexible opening hours while reducing the costs related to physical towers and legacy systems.

Indra offers a flexible technology platform for remote and digital towers and is involved in several innovative initiatives, including turn-key projects at Budapest and Vancouver airports. The technology platform for Avinor’s remote tower operations is delivered in partnership with Kongsberg Defense and Aerospace and ACAMS.