A Virtual Tower (vTWR) designed to remotely manage ground operations has been installed at Hamad International Airport (HIA) in Doha, Qatar.
Developed by Searidge Technologies, a company specialising in AI-powered solutions for aviation, the hybrid digital tower is the first of its kind to be certified by safety regulators in the Middle East.
The Digital Tower system was adopted to tackle line-of-sight limitations from the traditional ATC tower at Qatar’s main national airport.
It works by providing an ultra-high-definition, 360-degree view of the airport’s western expansion area, avoiding the need for a secondary tower.
Equipped with AI-powered intelligent detection and real-time safety alerts, the technology seamlessly integrates with existing airport systems including ADB Safegate’s OneControl, A-SMGCS surveillance, and ATM flight data.
It features four Virtual Tower Controller Working Positions, two located in the ATC tower and two in the Back-Up & Approach Training Center.
Credit: Searidge Technologies
Searidge started working with the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority to implement the technology in 2022, alongside its partners, ADB Safegate and NATS.
The vTWR was introduced as part of the Western Taxiway and Stand Development Project, a wider infrastructure and utility-focused expansion scheme at the airport.
“The successful implementation and certification of the Virtual Tower at Hamad International Airport marks a major milestone in our journey toward smarter, safer, and more resilient airport operations,” said Eissa Al-Meabid, Head of Air Traffic Control at QCAA’s Air Navigation Department.
“This achievement reflects our commitment to adopting cutting-edge technology that supports growth, enhances safety, and ensures operational excellence.
“We’re proud to lead this regional first, made possible through a strong collaboration with our partners and regulators.”
