Inverness Airport operator to look at how new wind farms can be created without impacting on air safety

Airport operator Highlands and Islands Airports Ltd has now begun the tender process for the development and implementation of a new wind farm-friendly system for Inverness Airport.

The new system will help the introduction of future wind farms by mitigating their impacts on current air traffic operations.

It has been hailed by HIAL as a significant step forward for wind energy production in the Highlands and Islands, ensuring future wind farm projects are compatible with the safety of any aircraft using the region's busiest airport.

Currently, any potential wind farm developments in the vicinity of Inverness would adversely affect the air traffic control service, resulting in unacceptable safety issues.

Inverness Airport general manager Graeme Bell said: “While aviation safety must always be our priority, environmental care is a strategic objective and we are committed to supporting environmental projects wherever possible.

“We propose to introduce a mitigation solution that will allow wind farm developments close to our airfield to progress, whilst ensuring the safety of airport operations.”

The new system was approved in principle by the HIAL board earlier this year. HIAL expects the contract will be awarded by the end of September and estimates operational functionality between 18 and 24 months from the point of order.

Scottish Government Transport Minister Graeme Dey said: “The Scottish Government is pleased that HIAL is progressing to tender for a windfarm tolerant system for Inverness airport. This is an excellent step forward to addressing the barriers to deploying renewable projects and demonstrates the commitment of both the renewable and aviation industries in achieving net zero.”

HIAL will keep in contact with wind farm developers to update them on the tender process.

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