Air Navigation Solutions (ANSL) is to implement Radar in The Tower (RiTT) operations at Liverpool John Lennon Airport.
ANSL has partnered with Liverpool John Lennon Airport and its internal air navigation services provider, Air Traffic Control Services Limited (ATCSL), and will undertake a technical assessment of the existing air traffic management equipment, development of operational procedures, and creation of a training plan and materials. ANSL will also support the engagement with the Civil Aviation Authority on behalf of ATCSL and Liverpool John Lennon Airport. These services will be complemented by a human factors review carried out by ANSL’s human factors specialist, Lucy Kirkland.
RiTT, when implemented, will enable the airport to combine the provision of the approach and tower services from one controller working position at times of low demand or in low complexity traffic scenarios. This reduces the need for additional air traffic control officers (ATCOs) during these periods, enabling support of other critical activities in the air traffic control unit. The combined service delivery also provides ATCOs with more optimal levels of air traffic handling during periods of low demand, such as the Covid-19 pandemic.
Matt Jackson, air traffic services manager at Liverpool John Lennon Airport, said: “The implementation of RiTT at our airport adds flexibility to our air traffic control function. In the longer term, RiTT will allow us to release staff for important projects. ANSL presented a compelling and well thought through solution, and its experience and expertise is exactly what we need to complement our own teams and ensure a swift and efficient implementation.”
The programme is expected to take approximately four months and initially culminate in an operational trial of RiTT operations at Liverpool Airport. Following a successful trial, this concept will be available for implementation for use on a longer-term basis.
Initial RiTT operations are expected to commence before the summer.
