As winter approaches, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International (NSCBI) Airport in Kolkata is ramping up preparations to handle the challenges posed by heavy fog. Like many other regions, Kolkata experiences a significant drop in visibility during winter, disrupting flight operations and cascading into delays throughout the day.
To ensure passenger safety and maintain operational efficiency, the airport authorities have announced the activation of Low Visibility Procedures (LVP) whenever visibility falls below 800 meters or the cloud ceiling drops under 200 feet. This crucial protocol involves coordinated efforts between the airport operator, air traffic control (ATC), and pilots.
Technology and Systems to Minimise Disruptions
Dr Pravat Ranjan Beuria, the airport director, emphasised that NSCBI Airport is well-equipped with advanced technology to tackle low-visibility conditions. “The airport is equipped with the CAT III-B Instrument Landing System (ILS), which allows aircraft to land with a runway visual range (RVR) as low as 50 meters,” Beuria explained. This system, along with enhanced ground lighting, ensures the safe landing, taxiing, and takeoff of aircraft.
Additionally, “Follow-Me” vehicles will guide planes to their designated stands when visibility is extremely poor, and non-essential vehicle movement on runways and taxiways will be restricted for added safety. The airport has also verified the functionality of critical systems, such as the ILS and ground lights, to ensure readiness.
Passenger-Centric Measures
Anticipating potential delays, the airport is implementing measures to minimise inconvenience to passengers. Food outlets will be stocked to serve stranded travellers, and an ample number of passenger chairs will be available to ensure comfort.
The Civil Aviation Ministry is also playing a proactive role. Minister K Rammohan Naidu recently convened a review meeting with stakeholders to discuss fog preparedness. Airlines have been directed to keep passengers informed about delays and to fully staff check-in counters to expedite processes during disruptions.
Airline Strategies for Winter Operations
Airlines, particularly low-cost carrier IndiGo, are adopting strategies to mitigate disruptions caused by dense fog. IndiGo has committed to deploying qualified Low Visibility Operations (LVO) crew for flights operating during fog-prone periods. Additionally, the airline is strategically positioning crew near airports to minimise delays caused by transportation challenges and pre-arranging accommodations for quick availability as weather conditions improve.
The success of Kolkata Airport’s fog management plan hinges on seamless coordination between all stakeholders. From deploying advanced technology to ensuring passenger comfort, every aspect is being addressed to maintain safety and minimise disruptions.
As fog blankets the region this winter, passengers can take comfort in the knowledge that the NSCBI Airport is well-prepared to handle the challenges, ensuring a smoother travel experience despite the weather.
(With agency inputs)