Why in the News?

• The October 25, 2024, incident where a Qatar Airways Boeing 787’s landing gear sank into a collapsed ramp at Doha underscores the importance of runway safety concerns.
• Similar risks exist in Chennai Airport’s expansion plans and the greenfield project at Parandur, where soil stability and structural integrity are critical issues that must not be overlooked.

What are the specific challenges and risks pilots face when landing at these airports?

• Runway Integrity: Pilots may encounter challenges if the runway or taxiways have structural weaknesses or are poorly designed, such as in the case of Doha, where the ground beneath collapsed under the aircraft’s weight.
• Crosswinds and Weather Conditions: Airports located near water bodies or in regions with extreme weather may present challenges during landing, such as turbulence from crosswinds or sudden weather changes, increasing the risk of hard landings or runway excursions.
• Ground Handling: The condition of the ground infrastructure, including taxiways and ramps, is critical. Pilots must be cautious of soft spots or areas not properly constructed to withstand aircraft weight, which can lead to accidents.
• Limited Runway Width and Length: Airports with insufficient runway dimensions may restrict landing and takeoff performance for larger aircraft, posing risks during adverse conditions where longer stopping distances are required.
• Inadequate Visual Aids: Poorly designed lighting and navigational aids can impair a pilot’s ability to assess runway conditions, especially in low visibility scenarios.
• Safety Compliance: Non-compliance with international aviation standards during the design and construction phases may lead to operational hazards that pilots must navigate.

How do airport design and infrastructure impact aviation safety?

• Structural Reliability: The strength and reliability of runway surfaces directly affect safety. Insufficient ground support may lead to structural failures under heavy loads, as seen in the Doha incident.
• Drainage Systems: Effective drainage systems are vital for preventing water accumulation on runways, which can lead to hydroplaning and loss of control during landings.
• Environmental Considerations: The placement of airports in flood-prone areas without adequate flood management strategies can compromise safety during heavy rainfall, as experienced in Chennai.
• Design Standards: Compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards is crucial for ensuring that airports are capable of safely accommodating various aircraft types.
• Construction Quality: The choice of construction materials and techniques directly impacts the longevity and safety of airport infrastructure. Cost-cutting measures may lead to substandard designs.

What measures are being taken to enhance pilot training and operational procedures at these high-risk airports? (Way forward) 

• Enhanced Simulation Training: Pilots receive advanced simulation training to handle specific challenges associated with landing at high-risk airports, including crosswind landings and emergencies on compromised runways.
• Regular Safety Audits: Conduct audits and inspections of airport facilities and infrastructure to ensure compliance with safety standards and identify potential hazards.
• Real-time Weather Updates: Implementation of systems that provide pilots with real-time updates on weather conditions and runway status, helping them make informed decisions during landings.
• Collaboration with Engineers: Continuous collaboration between pilots and airport engineers during the planning and construction phases to address potential safety issues upfront.
• Training on Emergency Protocols: Training programs that include scenarios specific to airports with known risks, ensuring pilots are prepared for emergencies related to runway or taxiway failures.

Mains PYQ: 

Q Examine the development of Airports in India through joint ventures under Public – Private Partnership (PPP) model. What are the challenges faced by the authorities in this regard. (2017)

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