Systems Interface Limited (SIL) to install the first of its kind remote Virtual Tower for Jersey Airport

SIL will work with Frequentis to supply a Remote Tower Visual Control Room (VCR) for Jersey Airport, set to be the first such system to enter operational service in the British Isles, with a target date of summer 2018.

The Remote Virtual Tower (RVT) will be operated as a contingency facility, in the event of a major failure with the main VCR, and will provide Air Traffic Controllers with a 220-degree High Definition view of the runway and airfield. Frequentis AG will supply the RVT technology, based on Frequentis’ smartVISION product, while SIL will provide all communications, information and meteorology systems associated with the contingency facility. The visual system complements a contingency Radar control facility delivered by SIL on behalf of Ports of Jersey in 2016.

Jersey Airport is a critical part of the regional transport infrastructure and continuous air traffic services are of paramount importance. The solution will enable the continuation of safe air traffic management for Jersey Airport from their contingency operations centre if the main ATC facility required evacuation. A high-resolution panorama view based on stitched images from 11 high-definition cameras and an additional pantilt-zoom camera will provide the controller with a continuous view of airport operations and enhanced situational awareness.

Les Smallwood, Senior Air Traffic Control Officer from Ports of Jersey said: ‘Ports of Jersey has been investigating the application of Remote Tower technology for a number of years. We made the investment decision to proceed with a Remote Tower for Jersey Airport as a contingency to manned VCR, and then develop the technology and business processes further from a live site. Ports of Jersey is very pleased to have joined with SIL and Frequentis for the delivery of this solution, and we have been impressed with their technology and proactive approach’.

SIL, in their role as Technology Partner to Ports of Jersey, will manage all systems integration and installation; provide Project Management, Safety Case and an extensive HF study in conjunction with Cranfield University for this complex project.