Calgary International Airport has erected the newest and tallest freestanding control tower in the country.

Standing more than 91.4 m (300 ft) tall, the structure is 41 m (135 ft) higher than the old tower and was constructed as part of the airport’s redevelopment plan. Additionally, the 60-m² (645 sf) cab has eight operating stations with improved visibility for NAV Canada air traffic controllers.

“Construction of the new Calgary tower was necessary to address changes taking place as part of the Calgary Airport Authority’s $2-billion development program,” NAV Canada’s Rudy Kellar said. “Its height allows optimal sight lines onto the new 4267-m (14,000-ft) parallel runway that is scheduled to be opened in May 2014.”

Additionally, the added height provides views of the holding bays, taxiways, approach and departure paths, and airborne traffic patterns.

Approximately 2800 m³ (98,881 cf) of concrete was used to the tower’s construction, and it is anchored to a below-grade slab.

The area at the base of the tower includes:

• administrative offices;
• conference room;
• fitness and locker rooms;
• technical operations work centre; and
• equipment room.