Introduction: Basics, History, and Overview

Since more than fifteen years an increasing interest is observed worldwide in remote control of low traffic airports by means some kind virtual tower. As outlined the Foreword Steve Ellis and Preface to 1st ed. this book, “Virtual Tower” depicts idea replacing out-of-the-window (OTW) view from a conventional tower on Remote Tower Control Center (RTC) relying advanced video, image processing, reality technologies. It eliminates need for direct visual observation consequently requirement costly building at exposed location distance runway. The virtual/remote connected with paradigm change air transportation due growth low-cost carriers corresponding increased usage small which nevertheless require services (ATS). Cost constraints new ideas concepts meet these requirements, one or without local visions. After providing Sect. 1 introduction basics airport vicinity, we continue 2 personal account Virtual research DLR perspective. section covers time frame initial around 2001 2014, including video VR technologies, addressing first operational shadow mode tests HMI prototype, finishing patent licensing industrial partner. In 3 focus development implementation phase between 2010 2020, covering important aspect multiple (MRT) operation standardization within growing international context. concluding 4 contains overview twenty-two Chapters four technical Appendices second edition book.