According to the Azienda Trasporti Milanesi (Atm), Milan traffic enforcement uses a specialized electronic system called Eagle Eye, or “occhio d’aquila,” combining cameras and artificial intelligence to automatically scan parked vehicles and flag potential violations. Developed by Viasat S.p.A., the technology processes plate numbers against a central server to detect unpaid parking or unauthorized stops in restricted zones, completing the initial screening in seconds before routing data to human operators for final verification.
How Eagle Eye Operates on Milan Streets
Sensors mounted on Atm enforcement vehicles scan parked cars as crews drive through the city, according to municipal reports. The camera captures the license plate and transmits the data instantly to a central server. According to Atm data, the system checks whether motorists have paid for parking on blue lines or parked illegally on yellow lines, tram tracks, or near public transport shelters.
Once the server analyzes the information, it transmits a notification to a tablet used by the traffic warden team. According to operational guidelines, a two-person crew handles the check: one drives while the operator reviews the server data on a tablet. The operator performs a final visual check before confirming the fine, ensuring a two-step verification process that takes only a few seconds per vehicle.
Expansion and Operational Growth Since 2019
The system has grown significantly since its initial launch. According to historical project data, Eagle Eye started in 2019 with a modest fleet of just three vehicles. Atm has since scaled the operation to a fleet of 18 vehicles providing widespread coverage across the municipal territory.
Atm deploys a workforce of 73 traffic wardens divided into 36 shifts to support the expanded fleet. Operations run during morning and evening hours, with extended shifts past midnight during major events such as concerts or football matches at San Siro, as well as in the city’s nightlife districts.
Enforcement Data and Reduction in Appeals
Recent enforcement figures demonstrate the scale of the automated checks. According to Atm statistics covering the first seven months of 2026, the system completed millions of checks, resulting in numerous issued tickets. Roughly 20% of the vehicles scanned were found in violation of parking regulations, with many of those infractions involving unauthorized parking on yellow or blue lines without a valid pass or payment.
Roberto Zambon, responsible for traffic enforcers at Atm, highlighted the administrative benefits in a statement reported by Corriere della Sera. Zambon noted that digital verification has increased performance and eliminated administrative disputes stemming from illegible or incorrect handwritten tickets by attaching verifiable photographic evidence directly to the digital record.
Did You Know? The Eagle Eye system was developed by Viasat S.p.A. and utilizing digital photography to protect against administrative errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Eagle Eye in Milan?
According to Atm, Eagle Eye is an AI-powered electronic system developed by Viasat S.p.A. that uses cameras mounted on enforcement cars to detect parking violations.
How quickly does the system issue a fine?
The entire verification process takes only a few seconds, with the central server instantly notifying an operator who confirms the infraction on a tablet.
What types of parking violations does it detect?
According to municipal transport data, the system flags unpaid parking on blue lines, unauthorized parking on yellow lines, and stops in restricted areas like tram tracks and bus shelters.
How many vehicles currently use the system?
Atm operates a fleet of 18 vehicles equipped with Eagle Eye sensors, supported by 73 traffic wardens across 36 shifts.
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