MLAT systems – The Peninsula

MLAT systems – The Peninsula

Busy air traffic requires constantly operating and accurate technological solutions. Planes should enter and leave airports at coordinated times and distances between each takeoff and landing. While the radar technology has been a staple of the sector for decades, today’s world requires more efficient and reliable services.

This is where the multilateration technology (MLAT) comes in. According to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), the MLAT system improves air traffic management in various sectors, whether it be traffic control or the enhancement of the surface movement awareness. First developed for detection in military use, it is now largely employed around the airports worldwide.

Much more powerful than radars, MLAT spots aircrafts through the use of transponders. These, in turn, communicate information about the exact location of the aircraft to the ground stations. Interestingly, these transponders have been developed as an auxiliary for the modern airports, since the military makes use of MLAT for stealth purposes.

Thanks to this very precise technology, airports are now able to guarantee access to more visitors over the year and have “busier” air spaces. Qatar, for one, is going to welcome the FIFA World Cup at the end of 2022. This means that the air traffic will be