2025 Agenda

Reliable weather radar is a cornerstone of airport safety, enabling early detection of hazardous conditions such as severe storms, wind shear, and heavy rainfall. With the growing demand for sustainable aviation infrastructure, the development of energy-efficient, solar-powered radar systems offers a new path toward resilient and eco-friendly operations.
This presentation will highlight the rapid deployment of a state-of-the-art solid-state radar system at Nukuʻalofa International Airport in Tonga. The radar was installed within weeks, operated continuously for one year on hybrid solar power, and provided high-quality data to improve flight safety and airport operations. Key lessons learned include technical challenges of operating in a remote Pacific island environment, strategies for ensuring data availability with limited infrastructure, and approaches to long-term system sustainability.
The session will conclude with recommendations for airports and regulators worldwide on how solid state weather radars can be integrated into airport safety frameworks, reducing operational risk while supporting global sustainability goals.