The introduction of Remote Towers represents a change to the functional ATM system. Replacing the traditional out-of-the-window view with cameras and transferring data between airports and a Remote Tower Center (RTC) introduces new hazards and challenges to flight operations.

Remote Towers are also known as Digital ATS for Aerodromes (DATS), Remote Aerodrome ATS (RAATS), Remote Tower Services (RTS), Digital Tower, or Virtual Tower. The many designations, together with a variety of concept designs and modes of operation, add additional layers of complexity when discussing Remote Towers. For clarity and consistency, this paper will use the term Remote Towers.

The scope of this Position Paper is to present the flight-operational consequences IFALPA and ECA1 identify with the implementation of Remote Towers. When referring to “alternate” in this Position Paper, the focus is on the destination alternate. Other alternates may become relevant in the future but are currently considered outside the scope of this paper.

To read through the full background information, position and recommendations, download the PDF position paper.

ECA/IFALPA 26 November 2025