Ericsson has deployed a private 5G network at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) in the US, providing dedicated wireless connectivity for airport operations and creating a platform for future digital transformation projects.
The network was launched in partnership with Insight Enterprises and the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC), which operates MSP, and covers indoor and outdoor areas across the airport’s five-square-mile campus.
The dedicated infrastructure operates separately from public cellular networks and Wi-Fi, supporting applications including video systems, common-use ticketing equipment and mobile workforce tools.
The MAC had previously relied on Wi-Fi for operational technologies such as mobile devices, surveillance systems and real-time data applications. However, interference from unmanaged devices and airfield obstacles affected reliability, while equipment moving between access points faced mobility challenges.
Rather than expanding its Wi-Fi infrastructure or investing in additional fibre, the MAC opted for Ericsson Private 5G to provide wider and more predictable coverage across the airport.
Airport staff now use connected tablets throughout operational areas, while the network provides secure cellular connectivity across runways, taxiways and gate areas.
“Transportation, public safety, maintenance and security all depend on connectivity,” said Eduardo Valencia, CIO of the MAC. He described the airport as being similar to running a city without residents, adding that the network provides enterprise-grade connectivity across a challenging airfield environment where growing numbers of systems and mobile assets need to remain connected.
Insight Enterprises resold and manages the Ericsson Private 5G service, while Pierson Wireless led its deployment and installation.
Scott Friedlander, SVP at Insight Public Sector, said deploying private cellular connectivity across a large and complex airport required close collaboration between technology providers and stakeholders.
One early application is an Axis Communications private cellular-enabled camera system that provides HD video monitoring on airport trams.
The network also connects dozens of airport vehicles equipped with Ericsson Cradlepoint routers. The routers allow MSP teams to access operational applications across the airfield using private 5G and public cellular networks when required.
The MAC plans to extend the network to airlines, concessionaires and other airport partners as it expands its use of private 5G to support maintenance and airport operations.
