Arad Airport will implement a virtual control tower system through a €3.5 million investment scheduled for completion by the end of 2027. The project aims to modernize air navigation infrastructure and streamline traffic management using a digitalized technological solution similar to the one serving Brașov Airport for three years.
Florin Manta, Director of the Arad Regional Air Navigation Services Directorate within Romatsa, confirmed that the feasibility study has been approved and the necessary funds are included in this year’s budget. The virtual tower will allow flight control from the Arad Flight Control Center, located approximately four kilometers from the airport. This transition from the current conventional tower to the digital solution will not lead to staff layoffs, although current employees also serve Brașov Airport in parallel.
From a technical perspective, the new equipment is designed to increase service quality, including providing superior visibility for controllers. Currently, the project is awaiting approval from the Aeronautical Authority for the positioning of the metal structure within the airport perimeter. After the equipment arrives, installation work is estimated to take about a year. Arad Airport, which currently only operates seasonal flights, charters, and aviation school activities, will thus benefit from modernized infrastructure by the end of 2027.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the value of the investment at Arad Airport?
The investment for the virtual control tower is €3.5 million, with funds already allocated in the current budget.
When will the virtual tower project be completed?
The project is scheduled for completion by the end of 2027, with installation taking approximately one year after equipment arrival.
Will the new technology result in job losses?
No, the transition to a digitalized control system will not lead to any staff layoffs at the Arad Flight Control Center.