In collaboration with the company Markoja, the Faculty of Transport and Traffic Sciences in Zagreb, and the airports of Zagreb, Zadar, and Pula, Hrvatski Telekom has presented the ‘NextGen 5G Airports’ project—a private 5G network initiative designed for airports. The project aims to improve efficiency, security, and the overall user experience. The total potential investment is valued at €5.6 million and covers all three airports. private 5G airport network

The project has been submitted for co-financing under the European Union’s Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) program. Its goal is to establish the key prerequisites for implementing the “Smart Airports” concept in Croatia.

Participants in the panel discussion included Marijana Bačić, Member of the Management Board of Hrvatski Telekom Business and Director of Combis; Matija Bračić, Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Transport and Traffic Sciences; Miran Gosta, Director of HAKOM; Boris Markoja, CEO and Board Member at Markoja; and Marin Tica, Head of IT at Zagreb International Airport.

Boris Drilo, Management Board Member of Hrvatski Telekom for Technology and Information Technology:

Private 5G networks are becoming a crucial tool for boosting efficiency, safety, and innovation in airport operations amidst the urgent need for digital transformation.

In collaboration with Markoja, the Faculty of Transport and Traffic Sciences in Zagreb, and the airports of Zagreb, Zadar, and Pula, Hrvatski Telekom has introduced the NextGen 5G Airports project. This private 5G network solution for airports aims to improve operational efficiency, enhance security, and elevate the overall user experience. The total investment is valued at €5.6 million and includes all three airports.

Private 5G powers smarter, safer airports.

A key advantage of private 5G networks is full control over infrastructure—from planning and implementation to daily management and upgrades. These networks enable faster digitalization, higher levels of security and reliability, and customization based on the specific needs of each airline, operator, or user. Given the high passenger volume (over 4.3 million at Zagreb Airport, 500,000 at Pula Airport, and a record 1.5 million at Zadar Airport in the past year), implementing private 5G across various operational segments is expected to significantly optimize airport processes.

With 14 kilometers of fencing, 188,684.95 m² of runway, and a complex lighting and navigation system, the deployment of drones equipped with UHD cameras and AI-based analytics will streamline inspections at Zagreb International Airport. This will enable real-time detection of irregularities, improve data accuracy, and provide actionable insights.

At Pula Airport, which has a smaller capacity and area (8,200 operations in 2024, one runway 2,946 meters long, 10,488 meters of security fencing), a system of 50 UHD cameras and RCR sensors will be installed along the fence. These will be connected to AI software that detects damage, intrusions (by people or animals) and provides real-time alerts.

Zadar Airport, with 7,879 operations in 2024, two runways (2,000 and 2,500 meters), and 7.5 kilometers of security fencing, will implement industrial tablets equipped with AI software to inspect runways and fencing. This will eliminate the need for verbal or radio-based reporting, as data will be automatically transmitted for processing and decision-making.

The panel discussion titled “Implementation of Private 5G Networks in Croatian Airports,” moderated by Marijana Bačić, highlighted how private 5G networks facilitate integrated communication between ground services, technical teams, and operations centers. Unlike older systems that support only voice or limited data, private 5G networks consolidate multiple communication platforms into a single, unified system—reducing the need for numerous devices and simplifying network management.

Marijana Bačić, Member of the Management Board of Hrvatski Telekom Business and Director of Combis:

Our strategic focus is the development of flexible private 5G solutions that empower airports to digitalize key processes—from staff scheduling optimization to predictive infrastructure maintenance. These investments enable Croatian airports to evolve, embrace future challenges and opportunities, and deliver superior experiences while ensuring sustainable growth and economic competitiveness.

Panelists noted that implementing such innovations in a highly regulated environment like airports requires meticulous planning and close cooperation with relevant authorities. Key elements for the modernization of air traffic include private 5G networks, cloud technology, artificial intelligence, analytics, applications, and—most importantly—connectivity, which forms the backbone of this entire ecosystem. private 5G airport network

Private 5G networks work seamlessly with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), enabling real-time data transmission between aircraft and ground maintenance teams. With the addition of augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR), airlines can anticipate malfunctions and perform maintenance faster and more efficiently—minimizing downtime and delays, and increasing customer satisfaction.

Boris Markoja, CEO and Board Member of Markoja:

Private 5G SA networks are transforming infrastructure—they are no longer just the backbone of connectivity but the foundation for the digitalization and automation of complex systems like airports and seaports. At Markoja, we invest in the development and deployment of 5G solutions that integrate AI, edge computing, and IoT to create secure, scalable, and efficient operational environments. Our mission is clear: to make infrastructure smart, adaptable, and future-ready.

Real-time data sharing between aircraft, air traffic control, and ground teams significantly enhances flight safety. The use of 8K surveillance cameras and drones enables constant and discreet monitoring of passenger activities. Improved connectivity also delivers updated weather information to pilots, supporting safer and more informed decisions.

Passenger communication and flight schedule management are vital. Digital check-in and boarding can reduce security screening times, while smart sensors and robotic baggage handling systems help prevent lost luggage. Autonomous ground vehicles further optimize traffic control and baggage logistics.

CEF (Connecting Europe Facility) is an EU co-financing program managed by the European Commission. Under its CEF Digital subprogram, the call for “5G Large-Scale Pilots – 5G and Edge for Smart Communities – Works” was published in October 2024. The EU funds up to 75% of eligible costs for pilot projects that integrate next-generation 5G networks and edge computing in sectors such as healthcare, education, transport, and agriculture. private 5G airport network

Marin Tica, Head of the IT Department at Zagreb International Airport:

We view the implementation of a private 5G network as an opportunity not only for the airport but for all stakeholders operating within its premises. It enhances processes and service quality in mobility, safety, and automation—especially in airside operations. We are proud to be part of this project, which brings excellent opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and accelerated development.