Indra is to provide Vancouver International Airport (YVR) with what the Spanish firm describes as the world’s most advanced digital apron control system.
Indra will provide the system as the airport operator, Vancouver Airport Authority, begins its own digitised apron management services programme. Indra will deliver a unique multi-mast A-SMGCS integrated digital tower solution for apron control composed of the InNOVA advanced surface movement guidance and control module (A-SMGCS) and the IRTOS digital tower module with 12 camera locations and a 4K video wall.
Vancouver Airport Authority manages aircraft movements on the aprons while the Canadian air navigation service provider, NAV CANADA, manages take-offs and landings. Indra’s A-SMGCS is currently one of the technologies used at YVR by NAV CANADA. When YVR operationalises its apron management programme in 2025, traffic control will be transferred between NAV CANADA’s tower controllers and the airport’s apron controllers for aircraft that enter or leave apron areas. By using the same technology, tower and apron controllers will have access to the same information, thereby streamlining communications and improving the situational awareness and decision-making of two highly interdependent functions.
The airport’s apron management programme will result in improved coordination of aircraft ground taxi operations with NAV CANADA, increases efficiency of aircraft movements thereby improving the experience for operators and reducing carbon emissions.
“We are proud to be among the first airports in the world to digitalise apron control at YVR,” said Andy Margolis, vice president, operations and chief operations officer, Vancouver Airport Authority. “Our apron controllers need, and will have, a system that is user-friendly, ensures full situational awareness, and enhances communication and information sharing. Our Apron management services programme will enable us to enhance the movement of aircraft on and around the aprons at YVR through active management practices.
“The digitisation of our apron management will also improve the passenger experience with enhancements in operating procedures and efficiencies. Indra understood our needs and its digital tower platform fits those needs perfectly. We’re confident in Indra’s ability to deliver a complete and fully integrated technology solution for air traffic management on YVR’s aprons.”
YVR is Canada’s second busiest airport, serving more than 19 million passengers in 2022.
Image: Vancouver International Airport
