Pune Airport Gears Up To Minimize Disruptions Amid Winter Fog
Pune Airport Gears Up To Minimize Disruptions Amid Winter Fog ( Representational Image )
As winter fog begins to affect flight operations across the country, the Pune airport authorities have assured that they are well-prepared to handle any disruptions and minimize inconvenience to flyers.
Pune airport director Santosh Dhoke while speaking to the media said that a fog management meeting was recently held to brief all stakeholders about their responsibilities in ensuring smooth operations during foggy conditions. “We have instructed all stakeholders to follow necessary protocols and instructions provided by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). We have clarified that there should be no lapses,” he added.
To ensure passenger comfort during flight delays, all units, including retail stores, F&B units, and lounges, have been directed to stay ready. “Airlines have an important role to play, and need to update passengers regularly whenever such a situation arises, and give them the options available. Misinformation or no information leads to problems, and airlines have been asked to ensure that they are alert in updating their passengers well in advance,” Dhoke said.
While flights arriving at Pune airport have not yet seen any fog-related disruptions, some flights to northbound cities have been affected, resulting in delays and diversions. The Air Traffic Control (ATC) is tasked with declaring Low Visibility Procedures (LVP) when visibility falls below 800 meters.
Pune airport’s runway is equipped with a Category-2 instrument landing system, which allows aircraft to land with a visibility of 300 meters on the runway. “Unlike in North India or the Eastern belt, Pune doesn’t usually witness very dense fog. However, we recently conducted a week-long aviation safety awareness week in which several programmes and events were held, including a detailed inspection of the airside and identification and removal of foreign objects from the runway. Ground staff have been asked to remain extra cautious during this season,” Dhoke responded to the media.
Passengers, however, have expressed concerns about the lack of updates during flight delays. “Over 90% of the time, whenever there is a delay due to some reason, flyers get angry as airline ground staff don’t tell them anything. They give very general answers, and many times, just leave them waiting and vanish. Lack of information leads to heightened tempers,” said Rama Krishnan, a regular flyer from Pune airport.
Source: Times Of India
