5.2.2 Binocular functionality

The binocular functionality (e.g. a Pan-Tilt-Zoom camera/function, as defined and described in ED-240A Change 1 [19]) emulates the function of a binocular in a conventional tower, by allowing the ATCO/AFISO to have a close-up view of a specific location or object. As such, it fulfils the part of ICAO Doc 9426 ATS Planning Manual [15] (PART III, Section 2, Chapter 2 ‘Specific Requirements for an Aerodrome Control Tower’) that lists binoculars as recommended equipment in an aerodrome control tower. This functionality is considered additional to the overall visual presentation, enabling the ATCO/AFISO whenever necessary to look at certain objects/occurrences in the area of interest more closely (e.g. engine on fire, landing gear extended, RWY condition/objects on RWY, etc.). The view from the binocular functionality may be presented within the visual presentation display (e.g. as ‘picture-in-picture’) or on separate screens/displays.