Mumbai International Airport has announced the commissioning of a specialized Disabled Aircraft Recovery Kit (DARK). In layman’s terms, this kit is basically designed to lift and tow aircraft in case of mishaps, ensuring swift and safe recovery.
Until now, Air India, owned by the Tata Group, was the sole aviation company in India equipped with the DARK system. The addition of the DARK at Mumbai International Airport marks a significant expansion in the country’s DARK capabilities.
DARK’s Impressive Aircraft Recovery Abilities
The Disabled Aircraft Recovery Kit at the Mumbai International Airport boasts of having the capability to swiftly recover various aircraft types, including heavy widebody Boeing B777-300, weighing a massive 390 metric tonnes.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) has introduced this DARK to minimize operational disruptions and expedite the resumption of airport activities. The kit also plays a crucial role in ensuring business continuity and resilience for other airports in the region.
Ensuring Passenger Safety and Minimizing Disruptions
Swift and precise interventions are essential for passenger safety, aircraft integrity, and airport operations. The DARK empowers airports to respond to such scenarios with precision, minimizing disruptions and reducing the impact on travelers.
Addressing Critical Aviation Concerns
“Runway excursion,” a critical concern in aviation, refers to incidents where aircraft unintentionally veer off or overrun runways during takeoff or landing. The DARK is a crucial addition to the airport’s infrastructure, enabling precise and efficient responses to such scenarios, ultimately ensuring passenger safety.
High-Pressure DARK Kit for Enhanced Efficiency
Operating with a single crossover runway, the airport operator can utilize the DARK facility equipped with a high-pressure kit for faster movement and restoring runway operations while safeguarding the aircraft.
The recovery process involves a sequence of steps, from ground preparation to aircraft lifting, de-bogging, and towing. The DARK’s compact design enhances its transportability, allowing rescuers to reach crash sites swiftly.
The acquisition of the DARK kit aligns with CSMIA’s strategy of building resilient airport infrastructure while enhancing the overall passenger experience, as stated in the official statement.
Expediting Runway Operations
DARK expedites runway operations, significantly reducing the likelihood of flight cancellations and minimizing inconvenience for passengers, according to the airport operator’s statement.
(With PTI Inputs)