The advantages of being able to operate Radar in the Tower (RiTT), where operational resource is efficiently matched to both demand and capacity, are well known.
Combining the Tower and Approach Radar function helps Air Traffic Controllers to maintain their skillsets during periods of low traffic, enables airports to cover reduced staffing levels at short notice, and releases resource for tasks outside of controlling. Having the ability to combine the Tower and the Radar Approach function in one position also offers great flexibility.
Despite the obvious benefits, very few UK airports currently operate RiTT. This is especially the case at small and medium airports, where operating RiTT can deliver the greatest advantages.
Why? Our research shows that there are several common obstacles preventing airports from implementing RiTT. ANSL understands these obstacles and can help airports to overcome all of them.
- Resource and expertise
Airports may not have the necessary resource, experience and expertise within their organisations to deliver the project efficiently and economically with regulatory approval.
ANSL has run RiTT operations at Edinburgh Airport for many years. We have a dedicated and experienced delivery team, as well as our tried-and-tested delivery framework, that can be made available to airports to support the implementation process.
- Ability to deliver training
RiTT requires training, and an airport may not have the resource or equipment to deliver it.
We can deliver this training in a number of different ways. We can work with an airport and the regulator to determine the most suitable training and deliver what is required together with the local team in the Unit. Where appropriate, we can deliver training using our 3D state-of-the-art simulators which can be adapted to any airport environment. This can either be carried out at our sites at Gatwick and Edinburgh, or together we can explore options for on-site training.
- ATS equipment
Airport equipment may need to be upgraded before RiTT can be implemented.
Our dedicated project team with the support of the wider organisation can identify exactly what changes or upgrades may be required to ensure that only necessary changes are progressed. We also have a proven track record in facilitating the required equipment upgrades and can help an airport futureproof its operation by delivering a seamless transition into RiTT.
- Lack of funds
There may not be budgets available to dedicate to RiTT, especially in the current environment.
We understand the commercial constraints of the current environment but implementing RiTT is an investment that frees up capacity and increases efficiency in the longer term. That is why we do not want the current circumstances to stop airports from introducing this great capability. We can offer flexible commercial models to airports that will enable RiTT to be implemented immediately so that any airport can start reaping the benefits as soon as possible. In any case, we will start by producing a feasibility report, detailing costs versus savings in both the short and long term for each airport specifically.
Next Steps
ANSL has the experience, skills and structure to work with airports as intensively or flexibly as needed to meet their commercial aims – whether that simply involves providing some support to their teams drawing on our experience to secure regulatory approval for operating RiTT, or the full management and delivery of implementation. We will provide the support they need.
Please get in touch with Vicky Bhogal-Hunt at vicky.bhogal-hunt@ans-atc.com to find out more.