Local concern at air traffic control loss

In these days of rampant centralisation to save money, should we draw the line at remote-control air traffic operations across the Highlands and islands? Alarm bells are certainly ringing for many local communities and politicians over the prospect of local control towers being scrapped.

They might be replaced with a Highlandwide air traffic control centre 100 miles away in Inverness under plans being discussed by Highlands and Islands Airports Limited (Hial).

They stress nothing has been decided, but bosses are “exploring opportunities” from new tower and air traffic technology. With 11 airports scattered across the region and 55 air traffic controllers, it is easy to see the attractions of replacing them.

Sweden became the first country in the world to pioneer remote control air traffic operations, but the Highlands would be a first for the UK. People in these rural and remote areas are naturally anxious about such a scenario in the skies above their heads on safety grounds, as well as potential job losses.

Air safety is a sensitive subject, especially in remote places where extreme weather fluctuations, challenging terrain and unstable communications channels can be a real threat.

Technology has changed our lives beyond recognition and if these new systems are reliable and safe then such progress is hard to resist. Concern is only natural and it is essential that Hial keeps the public on board every step of the way during its deliberations.

“Sweden became the first country to pioneer remote control air traffic operations”