As the world moves towards a more digitized future, businesses need efficient and effective solutions to stay ahead of the curve. One such solution is the implementation of 5G technology, which promises to provide faster connectivity and greater reliability, leading to increased productivity and flexibility. Fraport AG, the operating company of Frankfurt Airport, Germany’s largest airport, has recently built one of the largest private 5G campus networks in Europe, thus making its mark on the aviation industry.
Fraport AG is building one of Europe’s largest private 5G campus networks
The 5G infrastructure at Frankfurt Airport covers an area of approximately 150 hectares, making it one of the largest private 5G campus networks in Europe. The purpose of the infrastructure is to enable new use cases during the airport’s digitization journey. With 5G, Fraport has a greater capacity to provide faster connectivity, and can facilitate the transfer and analysis of vast amounts of data.
The Motivation Behind Fraport’s 5G Infrastructure
Fraport’s motivation for implementing 5G infrastructure is centered around the need to provide greater efficiency and flexibility for the airport’s various services and operations. The network can improve the processing time of services such as cargo handling and luggage transport and can provide better communication between airport staff and their systems. Additionally, the 5G network at Frankfurt Airport can also enable next-generation services, such as Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR), which could help transform passenger experience and provide better customer service.
Monitoring the perimeter fencing at the airport using 5G technology
An example of the benefits of the 5G infrastructure implemented by Fraport is the ability to monitor the nearly 30 kilometers of perimeter fencing at the airport with cameras via radio using 5G technology. This makes it easier and quicker for security personnel to monitor the airport’s borders from a central location, which can improve the safety and security of the airport.
The role of autonomous vehicles controlled by 5G in material and equipment transportation
5G technology also opens up possibilities for improving the transportation of materials and equipment at airports. Autonomous vehicles controlled by 5G can help alleviate the time-consuming task of transporting materials and equipment to aircraft. These autonomous vehicles can be programmed to operate at optimal times and optimize their routes to ensure minimal disruption to airport traffic.
Fraport’s Previous Radio Technologies and the Choice of OpenRAN for 5G Approach
Before implementing 5G technology, Fraport used various radio technologies for voice communication or to network its Internet of Things (IoT) devices. However, the implementation of 5G infrastructure required a more holistic approach. Fraport opted for an open standard and chose OpenRAN as the 5G approach, an open software-defined platform designed to enable the modular and flexible deployment of 5G networks. In addition, Fraport relied on the Microsoft Azure cloud platform for its 5G software.
Partnerships and Hardware Selection for the 5G Network
Fraport’s partnership with NTT, one of the world’s largest telecommunications companies, and network hardware provider Cisco, has helped ensure the successful implementation of the 5G network. Cisco provided the network hardware, and NTT offered support and expertise in the implementation of 5G infrastructure. The partners continue to observe the market closely, especially when it comes to antennas, as Fraport aims to provide continuous coverage across the airport.
Fraport plans to introduce a modern 5G-capable push-to-talk solution
Fraport’s focus on voice communication monitoring is not lost in the implementation of 5G. Fraport aims to map voice communication via the private 5G network and intends to introduce a modern, 5G-capable push-to-talk solution to enable seamless audio communication between airport staff and systems.
NTT’s involvement in later operations and support for component maintenance
NTT plans to continue its involvement in later operations and offer support for component maintenance. Having a reliable long-term partner for maintenance and support is critical for Fraport to ensure the continued success and effectiveness of their 5G infrastructure.
The entire 5G network rollout at Frankfurt Airport won’t be fully expanded until the end of 2024, but it is already having a positive impact on various airport services. By staying ahead of the curve, Fraport AG is ensuring that Frankfurt Airport remains at the forefront of aviation innovation and continues to deliver the best possible experience for passengers and airport staff.