Airlines operating at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) are expected to achieve significant annual savings of approximately Rs 150-180 crore. This forecasted reduction is attributed to the utilization of the newly inaugurated Eastern Cross Taxiways (ECT), which effectively decreases taxiing time and fuel consumption for aircraft.
Operational Efficiency and Passenger Experience
The 2.1 km long ECT, operational since July 14 at Delhi’s IGI airport, accommodates wide-body aircraft and significantly reduces the time passengers spend on the tarmac after landing and before take-off. This improvement contributes to operational efficiency and enhances the overall passenger experience.
Cost Calculations and Fuel Efficiency
DIAL CEO Videh Kumar Jaipuriar explained the cost savings further, breaking down the calculations. He mentioned that for every litre of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF), 2.5-3 kg of carbon dioxide is produced. The anticipated savings of 55,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide translate to around 18,000 tonnes of ATF, with each tonne costing Rs 1 lakh. The expected reduction in taxiing time is projected to save airlines Rs 150-180 crore.
ECT’s Role in Environmental Impact
Jaipuriar highlighted that assuming 10-15% of aircraft opt for the ECT, an estimated 55,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide could be saved annually. This emphasizes the environmental impact of the ECT, aligning with global efforts to reduce aviation-related emissions.
Impact on Taxiing Time and Emissions
On average, Jaipuriar stated that 7-8 minutes of taxiing time is saved for aircraft landing in the north and using the ECT to reach the south. DIAL estimates that the ECT can save around 350 kg of fuel for each aircraft movement, resulting in a substantial reduction of approximately 55,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually.
Environmental Equivalent and Connectivity Benefits
DIAL emphasized that the 55,000 tonnes of CO2 emission reduction is equivalent to planting about 15 lakh trees. The ECT’s role in connecting the northern and southern airfields on the eastern side of the airport also contributes to a significant reduction in taxiing distance, ultimately enhancing connectivity and operational efficiency.
Technical Specifications of ECT
The dual-lane ECT, designed to accommodate wide-body aircraft such as A380, B777, and B747, features lanes that are 44 meters wide with a 47-meter gap between them. This design allows for the simultaneous passage of two aircraft, further optimizing efficiency at the Delhi airport.
(With PTI Inputs)