Saab technology in new digital air traffic test centre in Belgium

The Belgian air traffic service provider Skeyes recently unveiled its Digital Tower Test Centre in Steenokkerzeel, Belgium, based on Saab’s digital air traffic management technology.

The test centre is a prototype for the digital control center currently under development by Skeyes and Société Wallonne des Aéroports in Namur, Belgium, set to be operational in 2026. It is based on Saab’s Remote Tower (r-TWR) solution and will be used to remotely manage the air traffic at Charleroi and Liège airports, which are located 100 km apart. The test centre will be used to train air traffic controllers and familiarise staff with the new technology.

"We are proud to collaborate with Skeyes in shaping the future of air traffic control. The Digital Tower Test Centre is a significant milestone in the field, and we are excited to contribute our expertise to this transformative project in Belgium,” says Per Ahl, CEO at Saab Digital Air Traffic Solutions. 

Saab has delivered and integrated advanced technologies which will enhance reliability and safety, including camera technologies, simulators and visual presentation for the air traffic controllers in the centre.

One of the pioneering achievements facilitated by Saab is the integration of an airport surveillance and Advanced Surface Movement Guidance and Control System (A-SMGCS) functionality into the digital tower concept. This system enables air traffic controllers to accurately track aircraft movements, even in adverse weather conditions, ensuring seamless operations at all times.

In addition to its collaboration with Skeyes in Namur, Saab is also involved in the development of digital control centers in Flanders, Belgium.

See more photos of the Digital Tower Test Centre from the ATC Network visit to Steenokkerzeel
https://www.flickr.com/photos/atcnetwork/albums/72177720316482146/