WORLD ROUTES: New Control Tower at Birmingham Airport Sparks Into Life

The new Air Traffic Control Tower at Birmingham Airport has taken a major step towards completion this week, as work begins on installing specialist avionics equipment inside the iconic building.

Fitting the tower with state-of-the-art technology represents the final phase of the two-year project, now construction of the £10m facility is complete. The installation is being carried out by NATS, with support from a range of specialist suppliers and the Airport’s very own team of technical experts.

Will Heynes, Development Director at Birmingham Airport, has overseen the project from the beginning. He said: “This extensive fit-out will mean the new tower will boast cutting-edge radar and navigation equipment that will benefit the airport for many years ahead. It will also include a completely digital environment for controllers, enhancing the ATC system with real-time information and functionality.

“When the installation is complete, our air traffic controllers will be able to start operating from this wonderful new facility which stands 33 metres high, providing a better view of the whole airfield, as well as allowing them to see the end of the extended runway, a development that will be complete in 2014.

“With preliminary work on the runway extension already underway, this is an exciting time of growth for the airport.”

The stunning seven storey structure will provide air traffic controllers with a clear view across the airfield and the main terminal building, helping them to safely manage the nine million passengers who pass through the airport each year.

Once fully competed, the tower will take over from the current 79ft control tower, which is situated at the old Elmdon Airport site and has been in use since 1939 when the original terminal opened.