According to a recent statement by airport administrators, the "Virtual Air Traffic Control Tower" application, which does not require the physical presence of personnel inside the air traffic control tower, has been implemented. For this application, a new control tower was built 145 miles from the airport. The control tower is equipped with 16 high-resolution cameras and advanced sensors, each with multiple lenses. There is also a self-cleaning mechanism to prevent all cameras from blurring residues and insects, and metal spikes to protect the cameras from birds.
Images and sounds from the virtual tower's cameras, which cost $28 million, are sent to the control center 145 miles away, bringing them together with air traffic controllers on 14 separate screens. With the live panoramic broadcast provided, controllers can successfully manage air traffic.
This system is notable for its much better night vision and easier detection of hazards in the PAT area. It is aimed to grow the airport more efficiently and safely by providing these and similar benefits. The app is expected to become widespread over time, as other major airports are also interested.
