HT Launches Smart Airport Project with Private 5G Networks

In collaboration with the company Markoja, the Faculty of Transport and Traffic Sciences in Zagreb, and the airports of Zagreb, Zadar, and Pula, Hrvatski Telekom has presented the NextGen 5G Airports project. It is a private 5G network designed for airports, aimed at increasing operational efficiency, enhancing security, and improving overall user experience. The total potential investment is valued at €5.6 million and encompasses all three airports.

The key advantage of private 5G networks is complete control over the infrastructure, from planning and implementation to daily management and upgrades. It enables faster digitalization, a higher level of security, reliability, and adaptation to the specific needs of each airline, operator, or user. Given the large number of passengers using airport services (with more than 4.3 million at Zagreb Airport, half a million at Pula Airport, and a record 1.5 million at Zadar Airport last year), the implementation of private 5G networks across various segments can optimize airport operations.

With 14 kilometers of fencing, 188,684.95 m² of runway, and a complex lighting and navigation system, the use of drones equipped with UHD cameras and AI-based analytics will significantly accelerate the inspection process, enable real-time detection of irregularities, increase the accuracy of data and assessments, and provide actionable recommendations at Zagreb International Airport.

Pula Airport, given its smaller capacity and area (8,200 operations in 2024, one runway 2,946 meters long, 10,488 meters of security fencing), will implement a system of 50 UHD cameras and RCR sensors along the fence, connected to AI software that detects damage, intrusions (by people or animals), and provides real-time recommendations.

Zadar Airport, which will have 7,879 operations in 2024, two runways (2,000 and 2,500 m), and 7.5 kilometers of security fencing, will implement industrial tablets with AI software for inspecting runways and fencing. Staff will no longer have to report irregularities verbally or via radio, as the data will be automatically sent for processing and decision-making.

Private 5G networks work seamlessly with AI and ML, enabling real-time data transmission between aircraft and ground maintenance teams. With the additional use of augmented and virtual reality and AI, airlines can predict potential malfunctions and perform repairs faster and more efficiently. This reduces downtime and unexpected delays, resulting in significant financial savings and high user satisfaction with their services.

Thanks to the ability to transfer data in real-time between aircraft, air traffic control, and ground teams, private 5G networks enhance flight safety. By deploying 8K surveillance cameras and utilizing drones, continuous and unobtrusive monitoring of passenger activities becomes possible. Improved connectivity enables the delivery of up-to-date weather information to pilots, allowing for better decision-making and the avoidance of turbulent conditions.

Informing passengers and maintaining flight schedules is essential. Digitizing check-in and boarding can reduce the overall security screening time, while sensors and baggage-handling robots help minimize lost luggage. Autonomous ground support vehicles provide enhanced traffic control and streamlined baggage loading.