Revolutionizing European Aviation: Frankfurt Airport’s Ambitious Private 5G Network Project

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.

Explore more

D365 Supply Chain Tackles Key Operational Challenges

Imagine a mid-sized manufacturer struggling to keep up with fluctuating demand, facing constant stockouts, and losing customer trust due to delayed deliveries, a scenario all too common in today’s volatile supply chain environment. Rising costs, fragmented data, and unexpected disruptions threaten operational stability, making it essential for businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMBs) and manufacturers, to find ways to

Cloud ERP vs. On-Premise ERP: A Comparative Analysis

Imagine a business at a critical juncture, where every decision about technology could make or break its ability to compete in a fast-paced market, and for many organizations, selecting the right Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system becomes that pivotal choice—a decision that impacts efficiency, scalability, and profitability. This comparison delves into two primary deployment models for ERP systems: Cloud ERP

Selecting the Best Shipping Solution for D365SCM Users

Imagine a bustling warehouse where every minute counts, and a single shipping delay ripples through the entire supply chain, frustrating customers and costing thousands in lost revenue. For businesses using Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management (D365SCM), this scenario is all too real when the wrong shipping solution disrupts operations. Choosing the right tool to integrate with this powerful platform

How Is AI Reshaping the Future of Content Marketing?

Dive into the future of content marketing with Aisha Amaira, a MarTech expert whose passion for blending technology with marketing has made her a go-to voice in the industry. With deep expertise in CRM marketing technology and customer data platforms, Aisha has a unique perspective on how businesses can harness innovation to uncover critical customer insights. In this interview, we

Why Are Older Job Seekers Facing Record Ageism Complaints?

In an era where workforce diversity is often championed as a cornerstone of innovation, a troubling trend has emerged that threatens to undermine these ideals, particularly for those over 50 seeking employment. Recent data reveals a staggering surge in complaints about ageism, painting a stark picture of systemic bias in hiring practices across the U.S. This issue not only affects