Addressing Safety Concerns at Calicut Airport: Solutions for Recent Flight Crash

The recent flight crash at Calicut International Airport in Kozhikode has raised significant concerns regarding aviation safety in one of India's key regional airports. Various teams are now working towards enhancing safety measures, with a focus on expanding Runway End Safety Area (RESA) and digitalizing air traffic control. This article explores these solutions and other necessary improvements that need to be made to ensure the safety and reliability of flights at Calicut Airport.

Expanding RESA for Enhanced Safety

One of the primary directions for enhancing safety at Calicut International Airport is the expansion of the Runway End Safety Area (RESA). This buffer zone is crucial for providing a safe landing and takeoff surface, reducing the risk of accidents due to debris or other hazards. By widening the RESA, there will be a reduced risk of flights falling into the hill valley during emergencies. However, this expansion will come with some challenges.

Calicut Airport is known for its unique table-top positioning, which makes it particularly challenging to land safely, especially during poor visibility conditions. Ensuring that the expanded RESA does not obstruct critical flight paths and does not create additional risks is essential. The hill valley near the airport presents a particular challenge, as there is limited space for buffer zones without encroaching on sensitive areas.

Digitalizing Air Traffic Control for Better Coordination

The digitalization of air traffic control is another critical solution that must be implemented to enhance safety at Calicut Airport. Currently, the air traffic control systems rely heavily on manual processes, which can be prone to human error and lack the precision required for safe and efficient operations. By integrating advanced digital technologies, air traffic controllers can rely on sophisticated gadgets and systems that provide real-time data and automated warnings.

Some of the key digital technologies that can be integrated include:

Automated Weather Systems: These systems can provide real-time weather updates, helping pilots to make informed decisions about takeoff and landing. Accurate and timely weather information is crucial for ensuring the safety of flights. Predictive Maintenance Systems: These systems can monitor aircraft systems in real-time and predict potential failures, allowing maintenance teams to address issues before they become critical. Automated Collision Avoidance Systems: These systems can alert controllers and pilots to potential collision risks, reducing the likelihood of mid-air collisions.

Implementing these digital solutions requires significant investment and cooperation from various stakeholders, including the airport management, airlines, and other relevant authorities.

Improving Instrument Landing Systems and Illumination

The poor quality of Instrument Landing Systems (ILS) and the scarcity of lighting pose significant challenges for night landings at Calicut Airport. ILS is essential for guiding aircraft during low-visibility conditions, and the current system at the airport is outdated and unreliable. Improving the quality and reliability of these systems is crucial for enhancing the safety of night landings.

Additionally, the airport should invest in better lighting systems, particularly along the runways and taxiways. Enhanced lighting can significantly improve visibility, making it easier for pilots to navigate during low-visibility conditions. This will not only reduce the reliance on luck and prayer but also provide a safer environment for both pilots and passengers.

Addressing Locals' Concerns and Real Estate Issues

One of the most significant challenges in implementing these safety improvements is the cooperation from local residents. The local community has been hesitant to leave their homes and land for the expansion of runways and other critical safety measures. This reluctance has led to delays and complications in the implementation of essential safety upgrades.

Local government and airport authorities need to develop effective communication strategies to address the concerns of the local population. This includes providing adequate compensation, relocation assistance, and ensuring that the benefits of these improvements are shared fairly among all stakeholders.

Furthermore, the involvement of politically motivated real estate mafia can complicate the situation. It is essential to ensure that these groups do not exploit the situation for their own gains and that the public interest is prioritized in all decision-making processes.

Conclusion

The recent flight crash at Calicut International Airport highlights the urgent need for enhanced safety measures at this crucial regional aviation hub. By expanding the RESA, digitalizing air traffic control, improving ILS and illumination systems, and addressing local concerns, it is possible to significantly reduce the risks associated with flying at Calicut Airport. The success of these initiatives will depend on the cooperation of all stakeholders, including local residents, airport authorities, airlines, and the real estate sector.