NAV Portugal delivers new wind detection system to Madeira Airport

With a range of more than 10 km, the system will collect meteorological data with high precision and in near real time, reinforcing operational safety.

NAV Portugal has officially launched a new wind detection system at Madeira International Airport, marking a major step forward in enhancing the safety and efficiency of airport operations in the region. This initiative underscores NAV’s dedication to modernising air navigation infrastructure across the country.

The “MADeira Winds” (MAD Winds) system features an X-Band Radar, a LIDAR system, and an advanced processing platform capable of analysing meteorological data with high precision and near real-time accuracy. This state-of-the-art system provides critical operational support and boosts crew confidence by delivering detailed insights into local weather conditions.

“This investment reflects NAV Portugal’s commitment to operational safety and the efficiency of air operations, in this case particularly with the Autonomous Region of Madeira, guaranteeing robust technical support for controllers, pilots and airport operators,” said Pedro Ângelo, CEO of NAV Portugal.

The system delivered in December 2024 to Madeira airport, the result of an investment of 3.5 million euros by NAV Portugal, has the main objective of improving the analysis and forecasting of critical meteorological phenomena, such as windshear, turbulence and microbursts, which affect airport operations. The system enables more effective knowledge of wind conditions in the very short term, particularly during the most critical phases of flight – approach, landing and take-off.

The alerts automatically generated by MAD Winds will be transmitted by air traffic control to aircraft, providing essential support for operational decisions and empowering crews to make decisions, as they will be better informed about the weather conditions they may face. In addition, the system will contribute to greater efficiency in air traffic management, airline operations and airport management.

With a range of more than 10 km around the airport, the system will collect highly accurate weather data in near real time. This information will be analysed by the competent authorities and could, in the future, support a possible revision of the wind limits in force. Currently, around 80% of wind-driven divergences are only up to 3 knots above the limits, making this system a crucial tool for a more accurate and potentially more favourable assessment of the operation.

The MAD Winds System is now starting a 365-day pre-operation period, during which it will be continuously evaluated and subjected to adjustments in its configuration and parameterisation in order to optimise its operation in relation to the physical and operational characteristics of Madeira Airport. This period will also allow for comprehensive analysis in different weather conditions, consolidating the data needed for even safer and more efficient operations.

Madeira Airport thus becomes one of the few airports in the world to benefit from this cutting-edge technology to mitigate adverse wind conditions. Inspired by similar infrastructures implemented at airports such as Hong Kong and Palermo, the MAD Winds System is positioned as a valuable tool for improving safety, predictability and confidence in operations, reaffirming NAV Portugal’s commitment to innovation and operational excellence.