The Israel Airports Authority is launching one of the most significant infrastructure projects in Israeli aviation: The establishment of the Main Control Unit (MCU) at Ben Gurion Airport. As part of the project, the air traffic control units in the north and south will be merged for the first time into a single national control center, which will also consolidate all radar and communications systems.
The Authority explains that the move is intended to upgrade Israel’s air traffic management system using advanced technologies, in line with international standards. Among other things, the project is expected to increase air traffic capacity, improve safety and operational continuity, and strengthen the management and automation capabilities of the control systems.
These days, the Israel Airports Authority has issued a pre-qualification process for contractors ahead of the project’s execution, which is considered one of the most complex and strategic initiatives the Authority is advancing.
Response to growing demand for flights
Transport and Road Safety Minister, Brig. Gen. (res.) Miri Regev, said: “The open skies policy requires us to continue investing in Israel’s aviation infrastructure. The establishment of the Main Control Unit will enable us to meet the growing demand for flights to and from Israel, and will ensure a safe, efficient, and advanced aviation system.”
Chairman of the Israel Airports Authority, Maj. Gen. (res.) Yiftach Ron-Tal, added: “The Main Control Unit is a strategic national infrastructure that will serve the State of Israel for many years. The project will strengthen resilience, operational continuity, and Israel’s aviation management capabilities.”
CEO of the Israel Airports Authority, Sharon Kedmi, stated: “The MCU is one of the most complex and significant projects the Israel Airports Authority is advancing. For the first time, all control, radar, and communications systems will be centralized in one advanced hub. This represents an operational leap forward that will improve air traffic management, increase efficiency, and enable optimal preparedness for the expected growth in flight volume.”