OREANDA-NEWS. On July 24, 2007 corner stone expansion ceremony was attended by Minister of Economic Affairs and Communications Mr Juhan Parts, Deputy Minister Mr Siim-Valmar Kiisler, visitors from different aviation organisations, builders and EANS employees, reported the press-centre of EANS.

EANS is mandated to perform commitments in the field of air traffic control undertaken by the state through joining the Chicago Convention (providing the necessary infrastructure and supporting services) as well as ensuring safe and expeditious air traffic management in Estonian airspace.

In 2006 the growth of overflying air traffic in Estonia exceeded 18,5 %, being the highest in Europe. During the year 103 849 overflights and 35 832 local flights were controlled. It is forecasted that in the nearest future the growth will not be so rapid, but it will still be above the average in Europe. The increase in overflying traffic during the first six month of this year was 11,3% the total growth being 7,7%.

Such a fast traffic growth requires system augmentation and capacity enhancement, pushing the company to expand the existing ATS premises. The ATC Centre will get additional 1261,6 square meters, the main part of it being new OPS room. Also Flight Data Section is going to be accommodated there as well as technical premises, coffee room and fitness club.

The design of the expanded building cost  1,6 mln krooni, the designer was EPT Grupp. The construction company is EF Rand & Tuulberg. The total cost of the construction of the new part is 39,8 mln kroon. The contract with the construction company was signed on the 25th of May 2007. The construction is planned to be completed on the 29th of February 2008.

After the corner stone placing ceremony Minister and the attendees were taken for a tour of the ATC Centre.