Project to transform part of iconic EDI control tower completes as terminal teams move in

Part of the airport's iconic control tower has been transformed in a £1.1 million project as our terminal operations team moves into its new home there.

The Airport Operations Control Centre, the highly-skilled team behind the day-to-day running of the airport, is now based at state-of-the-art office facilities which have been installed inside the famous landmark.

This department, which is known as the 'eyes, ears and voice' of Edinburgh Airport, is made up of Airport Operations Managers (AOMs), Passenger Operations Safety Managers (POSMs), and AOCC Co-ordinators who handle hundreds of calls, monitor hundreds of cameras and respond to emergency callouts.

They were previously based inside the terminal building and along with providing access to a better, more practical working space, the change also allows easier collaboration with partners at Air Navigation Solutions Limited (ANSL) who manage air traffic control from the tower.

'A fantastic working environment for teams inside what is an iconic Scottish landmark'

The airport control tower, which was opened in 2005 replacing the existing Turnhouse tower, stands at 57-metres tall and is one of the first things people see when they approach the airport (along with planes arriving and departing).

And Myles Grima, Edinburgh Airport’s Head of Operations, points to the significant benefits brought by basing the AOCC inside the building. He said:

“This development will transform the way our teams collaborate with partners – including air traffic control – who are already based in the tower, allowing the further sharing of knowledge, skills and expertise.

“A lot of hard work has gone into creating this bright and appealing space, ensuring a fantastic working environment for our teams inside what is an iconic Scottish landmark.”

Vicky Bhogal-Hunt, Air Navigation Solutions Limited’s Head of Air Traffic Services at Edinburgh Airport, said:

"Bringing the AOCC into the tower is a highly logical move that will ensure a seamless working environment that fosters increased efficiency and the exchange of knowledge and collaboration between ANSL and our valued partners at Edinburgh Airport.”

“We look forward to working closely with the AOCC team to ensure we can continue to deliver the best possible air traffic management operation at Edinburgh."