18.12.2007
Countdown to Naviair's new ATC system

On the night between 28 and 29 December, Naviair will begin using a new, modern and highly efficient air traffic control (ATC) system at Copenhagen Airport. Naviair held a press briefing on 11 December an altitude of 70 metres: in its new premises in the new ATC tower.

In 2007, Naviair has been supplying ATC services both from the new and the old Copenhagen Airport ATC towers at the same time to ensure that all

the technical features were functioning properly. After several years of intensive work, Naviair is now ready to bring the new ATC system and tower at Copenhagen Airport online. This will take place on the night between 28 and 29 December 2007, when the new systems will show they pass muster.

Caption: Copenhagen TWR/APP Operations Manager Peter Majgård Nørbjerg briefs the press on the transition to the new ATC system.

Denmark at the forefront

According to Naviair CEO Morten Dambæk, the new ATC system represents an investment of DKK 1.2 billion. This huge investment is intended to meet a growing demand for additional capacity, allowing the airport to handle a rising number of aircraft in the air without compromising on safety.

“We are working towards being able to use our air space as a shared resource in Europe, what with the standardised solutions for equipment and training we are putting together now. In future, we will be able to buy equipment and software upgrades together with other countries. When we start using the new ATC equipment, we will be at the very forefront of the European scene,” said Dambæk.

Copenhagen Airport is monitoring the transition

Henrik Peter Jørgensen, director of operations at Copenhagen Airports A/S, thinks that Naviair has timed its switch to the new ATC system well, since it will take place at the time of year when traffic is at its lowest levels.

“We are very pleased that Naviair is changing to a new ATC system so that they can satisfy future demand for Danish air space. It is a highly responsible decision Naviair is making, reducing its capacity right now so it in no way compromises safety. We will maintain a close dialogue with Naviair and continuously provide updated information to passengers at our website so that it is easy to gain an overview of any traffic irregularities during the transition period,” said Jørgensen.

Risk of delays during peak hours

Naviair expects a risk of delays to flights passing through Danish air space during the period from mid-January and a couple of months ahead. According to Naviair, traffic will be reduced during peak hours for safety reasons. 

“Naviair will reduce the number of flights, take-offs and landings for a short period of time while all air traffic controllers are building up a routine in using the new ATC system. Delays during the transition period will be the price Denmark pays to have one of the best and most future-orientated ATC systems in the world,” said Naviair Operations Manager Jesper Skou.

The delays are expected to occur during the first three months the new ATC system is used. After that, Naviair will be return to normal capacity.