BULATSA, Bulgarian Aviation Safety Authority

The Customer and the Result

BULATSA is the Bulgarian air traffic control authority and is responsible for providing safe and efficient air traffic control services in Bulgaria. As part of a comprehensive modernization project, the Sofia, Burgas, and Varna sites were equipped with new air traffic controller workstations.

Knürr implemented a customized workstation solution that combines ergonomically optimized air traffic controller workstations, an intuitive control system, and a monitoring system for real-time oversight within a maintenance-friendly technical infrastructure.

The result is a uniform, highly available, and future-proof work environment that offers air traffic controllers optimal visibility and a high level of comfort during continuous shift operations.

The Initial Situation and Challenge

An ergonomic, highly available, and future-proof workstation solution was needed for air traffic control. This solution had to be standardized across multiple locations and areas of operation in ATC environments.

Key requirements were:

• Equipping multiple locations with a consistent workstation concept

• Integrating complex air traffic control and IT technology into a maintenance-friendly base and rack structure

• An ergonomic design for long-term shift operations

• Providing a clear overview of all monitors despite high information density and multiple systems displayed in parallel

• Flexible support for different monitor and control configurations

• Secure and structured routing of power, data, and interface infrastructure

• High availability and future-proofing in a mission-critical air traffic environment

Technical Highlights of Our Solution

Knürr implemented a customized workplace solution consisting of:

Products and services provided:

• 74 ergonomically optimized air traffic controller workstations: Knürr air traffic controller/ATC workstations with electric height adjustment for continuous shift operation

• Intuitive Knürr® Ergocontrol OPX control system: Centralized control of all workstation, ergonomic, and system functions via a unified user interface

• Knürr® CEC monitoring system: Real-time monitoring of technical systems, temperature, and environmental conditions for maximum operational safety

• Special multi-monitor mounting systems designed to accommodate complex monitor configurations

• Technical base units with 19" integration, structured cable management, ventilation, and interior lighting

• Custom-configured Connecting Elements, optional features, and site-specific adaptations for tailor-made workstation solutions

• Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) and assembly training at the factory: Pre-tested and guaranteed quality for smooth on-site commissioning

Additional technical highlights:

• Height- and depth-adjustable monitor shelves and tilt adjustment for the desk surface: Individually adjustable via electric motors for optimally adjustable viewing angles and ease of use

• Solutions for mounting 42-inch radar monitors with tilt and rotation functions

• Acoustic back panels, workstation lighting, and footrests: Additional solutions for comfort and concentration

• Integrated power and data distribution: secure, structured routing of the entire supply and interface infrastructure

• Uniform workstation concept across multiple locations

A holistic project approach, from planning and manufacturing through the Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) to training —ensured smooth implementation and commissioning of the highest quality.

The Results and Benefits

Ergonomics and Concentration:

Electrically height-adjustable consoles, tilt-adjustable operator panels, flexibly adjustable monitor levels, and special multi-monitor mounting systems create optimal viewing conditions and maximum working comfort. The 42-inch radar monitors with tilt and rotation functions further support ergonomic adjustment to the specific work situation.

Flexibility and Standardization:

The standardized workstation concept across multiple locations improves usability, consistency, and efficiency in operational processes. The intuitive control system consolidates the control of all workstation, ergonomic, and system functions into a single, centralized user interface. This simplifies training and operation, minimizes operating errors, and ensures a consistently high level of ergonomics and system control across all locations.

System Transparency and Operational Reliability

Integrated technical substructures and structured cable routing enable the secure, organized, and maintenance-friendly integration of IT equipment. The monitoring system complements this with real-time monitoring of equipment, temperature, and environmental conditions: deviations are detected and displayed early on, before they affect operations. This provides a transparent, comprehensive overview of the status of the workstation systems, which minimizes disruptions, shortens response times, and ensures high availability in 24/7 operation.

Quality and Investment Security

The high quality of Knürr’s services and products was already evident during the on-site Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) in Arnstorf. At the same time, the modular system solution allows for future adaptations and expansions, thereby providing a robust, long-term foundation for mission-critical control room applications.