Challenge
Highlands & Islands Airports Ltd wanted to improve flight reliability at Kirkwall Airport in the Orkney Islands by introducing an instrument landing system to enable suitably equipped aircraft to land in poor weather which frequently impacts on operations. In addition, there was an economic challenge to deliver a solution in line with an operation of this size.
Solution
NATS provided a complete project solution that extended from the initial feasibility study and design through to the supply, installation and commissioning of equipment. We delivered the project in three 'packages'.
- Civil Infrastructure - Design and build of emergency access roads, Navigational, Aids Beam Forming Area Terrain Profiling, pit & duct systems, runway markings and plinths for AGL/navigational aids equipment.
- Air Ground Lighting - Supply, installation and commissioning of approach, edge, taxiway and apron lighting as well as control systems emergency power equipment.
- Navigation Aids and MET - Supply, installation and commissioning of CAT 1 ILS, DME, IRVR and NDB equipment.
We modelled the future performance of the system to confirm compliance with UK and international standards. NATS also helped Highlands & Islands Airports to achieve UK CAA regulator approval for the new equipment by helping to produce safety case documentation for the project.
Result
Kirkwall's new landing system was delivered cost-effectively, on time and with minimal impact on the airport's operations enabling the airport to increase capacity and revenue.
