In the quest to revolutionize airport operations, Hrvatski Telekom, in collaboration with Markoja, Faculty of Transport and Traffic Sciences in Zagreb, and the airports of Zagreb, Zadar, and Pula, has launched an innovative initiative: the NextGen 5G Airports project. This ambitious €5.6 million project harnesses the power of private 5G networks to dramatically enhance operational efficiency and security, and significantly elevate the passenger experience. This pioneering approach to air travel is expected to set a new standard of excellence and innovation in the aviation industry.
Private 5G networks are at the heart of this transformative project. These networks offer full control over infrastructure, from the initial planning and implementation to daily management and upgrades. This complete control facilitates faster digitalization, enhanced security, and customization tailored to the specific requirements of each airline, operator, or user. The potential of private 5G networks to significantly optimize airport processes is especially pertinent given the high passenger volume at the three Croatian airports. With over 4.3 million at Zagreb Airport, 500,000 at Pula Airport, and a record 1.5 million at Zadar Airport in the past year, the demand for improved connectivity and streamlined operations is evident.
Evidence of this transformation is already visible. At Zagreb International Airport, with its 14 kilometers of fencing, a vast 188,684.95 m² runway, and a complex lighting and navigation system, drones equipped with Ultra-High Definition (UHD) cameras and AI-based analytics are deployed to streamline inspections. This advanced technology enables real-time detection of irregularities, improves data accuracy, and generates actionable insights.
Pula Airport, although smaller in capacity and area, will also see significant enhancements to its security measures. A system of 50 UHD cameras and RCR sensors will be installed along its 10,488 meters of security fencing. Connected to AI software, the system will be able to detect damages and intrusions – by people or animals – and provide real-time alerts, thereby significantly boosting the airport’s security capabilities.
Zadar Airport, with its two runways and 7.5 kilometers of security fencing, plans to implement industrial tablets equipped with AI software to inspect runways and fencing. This approach will not only increase the efficiency of inspections but also eliminate the need for verbal or radio-based reporting, as data will be automatically transmitted for processing and decision-making.
The “Implementation of Private 5G Networks in Croatian Airports” panel discussion moderated by Marijana Bačić highlighted the integrated communication benefits offered by private 5G networks. Unlike older systems, which only support voice or limited data, private 5G networks consolidate multiple communication platforms into a single, unified system, reducing the need for numerous devices and simplifying network management.
The NextGen 5G Airports project is a clear indicator of the future of aviation, seamlessly blending technology and operational efficiency to drastically improve the airport experience for all users. The strategic use of private 5G networks, coupled with advanced AI software, paints an exciting picture of the future of aviation. The Croatian airports serve as a pioneering model for others worldwide, showing how the innovative use of technology can revolutionize airport operations while enhancing passenger experience and security. This is not just an upgrade; it’s a paradigm shift in airport operations.
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