Vertiport5G - 5G enabled Vertiport for critical Drone operations

Important results from the project

Vertiport5G was implemented by A2M, Ericsson, Kookiejar, Mid Sweden University, Sundsvall and Norrköpings Airport. The project demonstrated how 5G and sensors can support the future of drone traffic at Vertiports and clarified key use cases. New partners for the next step were identified, including Telia, ServaNet and Linköping University. The project also provided important insights into differences between 3GPP standards and EASA protocols, as well as synergies with "Safe City" in Sundsvall.

Expected long term effects

The project is expected to provide a scalable model where 5G and 3GPP-based infrastructure can detect and identify aircraft without local CNS investments. This can accelerate drone and eVTOL services and reduce ground risk through better sensing of obstacles and movements. The work with EASA can influence future standards, and the combination of 5G data and local sensors strengthens the ability of society to handle both cooperative and non-cooperative objective.

Approach and implementation

The project was carried out according to plan with a well-balanced approach. The schedule was somewhat affected by vacation periods that made it harder to anchor new participants, but the work progressed as intended and all parties contributed positively. The unexpected was mainly positive: Säker Stad ran in parallel and provided input, and through our relations with EASA the project gained support and European visibility. Ericsson and Kookiejar promoted the project at MWC25 and Dubai Airshow.