Three Croatian airports – Zagreb, Zadar, and Pula – are becoming pioneers of digital transformation in the region thanks to the implementation of private 5G networks. This project, worth 5.6 million euros, was developed in cooperation with Hrvatski Telekom, the Marko company, the Faculty of Transport Sciences, and the airports themselves, and was applied for co-financing from the European CEF Digital program.
Key benefits of private 5G networks
Private 5G networks enable segmentation of traffic and full control over the infrastructure, which increases the security and reliability of operations.
Digitization of processes – from smart baggage management, equipment monitoring, security checks to traffic optimization and communication with drones – increases efficiency and reduces the risk of errors.
Rapid data exchange and the application of artificial intelligence enable the prediction of breakdowns and faster repairs, thereby reducing delays and maintenance costs.
The integrated exchange of voice, data, and video between all services at the airport enables faster and better service to passengers.
Technological innovations
Technological innovations are:
– IoT and Biometrics: Deploying IoT solutions for baggage tracking, biometric check-in and boarding, and autonomous vehicles and robots.
– AR/VR and AI: Use of augmented and virtual reality and artificial intelligence to monitor, maintain and optimize resources in real time.
– Drones and analytics: Application of drones with UHD cameras and analytics for infrastructure inspection and runway irregularity detection.
Funding and duration
The project has been submitted to a tender for European co-financing, and if approved, the airports will use private 5G networks for three years free of charge. During this period, various application models will be tested, followed by commercialization and further development of smart systems.
Impact on the economy and the local community
The digitization of airports raises the level of service and attracts a larger number of passengers, thereby strengthening the economy and tourism offer of Croatia. Process automation and optimization reduce resource consumption and increase business sustainability. This initiative places Croatian airports among the most advanced in Europe, creating the foundations for the further development of smart transport systems and the digital economy.
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