116 cameras for Changi's 'smart digital tower' trial

They will send live video images to air traffic controllers, who can guide planes without seeing them

Changi Airport's control tower. NATS was appointed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore in November 2017 to develop the smart digital tower prototype, which is expected to undergo testing for at least six months. If the technology is proven r
Changi Airport's control tower. NATS was appointed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore in November 2017 to develop the smart digital tower prototype, which is expected to undergo testing for at least six months. If the technology is proven reliable, physical control towers may not be needed in the future. ST PHOTO: JOSEPH CHUA
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There are 116 cameras along the two runways at Changi Airport, as Singapore prepares for a trial later this year - the first of its kind that could change the way major airports handle flights.

The cameras are part of a 22-month project by the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) to develop and test a smart digital tower prototype.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on April 15, 2019, with the headline 116 cameras for Changi's 'smart digital tower' trial. Subscribe