Backed by the BMDV, Germany’s Paderborn/Lippstadt Airport (PAD) is taking its AEM Speedport project to the next stage
Supported by the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV), the AEM Speedport project aims to move aircraft autonomously and without engine power from the parking position to the runway gate and back again after landing. This is to be achieved through an interactive control centre that monitors and controls all flight movements using sensors and AI-supported processes.
The project is part of a larger vision to make airport operations more efficient and future-proof through automation. According to Stefan Schnorr, state secretary at the BMDV, AI (artificial intelligence) and autonomous processes are crucial to ensuring smooth flight operations and keeping the aviation location competitive in view of the shortage of skilled workers. The automated processes could not only increase efficiency, but also contribute to greater sustainability in airport operations.
Since the funding was approved in autumn 2024, the airport – in the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia – has already made significant progress. Test locations on the ramp, at the virtual tower and in the hangar have been determined. In addition, a tow vehicle is being prepared for autonomous operation, while at the same time the expansion of the virtual tower is progressing. Talks are already underway with airlines and manufacturers to procure a suitable aircraft demonstrator for the planned tests.
