ENAIRE’s 3D radar station in Begas (Barcelona)
• The new radar entered service today
• Three-dimensional technology is a major advance on its predecessor and improves surveillance
• Installing, adapting and configuring the new radar took approximately six months
ENAIRE, Spain's national air navigation service provider, has today brought into service the new Begas radar (Barcelona) with 3D (three-dimensional) technology, an essential system for managing air traffic in Catalonia. This ENAIRE investment is funded by European resources from the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan (PRTR).
The radar upgrade involved replacing the large spherical structure that protects the antennas, a component technically known as the ‘radome’. In addition, the introduction of 3D technology marks a significant improvement in the primary radar's detection capability.
ENAIRE's radars play a vital role in guaranteeing flight safety. Thanks to them, air traffic controllers can monitor the position of every aircraft at all times. The Begas radar is an indispensable sensor for air traffic surveillance coverage in the northeast of the Iberian Peninsula.
Work to replace the Begas radar began earlier this year, with the removal of the old antennas. After the new antennas were hoisted, work continued with the installation of the new radome, which required a full day's work and favourable weather conditions.
ENAIRE’s 3D radar at Begas (Barcelona) with the new radome
Why was the new radar installed?
The work was necessary to ensure the performance of the Begas radar and to upgrade the primary radar technology.
Installing, adapting and configuring the new radar took approximately six months.
To carry out a project of this kind, ENAIRE first installed a temporary radar to maintain surveillance coverage which, given its short-term nature, did not require a radome.
This ensured continuity of the service provided by the Begas radar, as the surveillance data from the temporary radar continued to feed into the Automated Air Traffic Control System (SACTA), the system used to deliver air traffic control services, maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality.
About ENAIRE
ENAIRE is the air navigation service provider in Spain.
As a company of the Ministry of Sustainable Transport and Mobility, it provides air traffic control services during the en route and approach phases of all flights to and from Spain and overflights. In addition, it manages communications, navigation and surveillance services from ENAIRE in the airspace and the entire AENA airport network in Spain and provides aerodrome air traffic control services in 21 airports, including the busiest.
ENAIRE is the fourth largest European air navigation service provider, and it is a member of international partnerships A6 Alliance, SESAR (Single European Sky ATM Research) Joint Undertaking, SESAR Deployment Manager, iTEC, CANSO (Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation) and collaborates closely with ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization).
ENAIRE has achieved the highest rating for the key performance indicator regarding air safety at the European level for six consecutive years, securing the maximum possible score of 100%. It has also been awarded the EFQM 600 Seal for its safe, efficient, innovative and sustainable management of air navigation services.