In a significant development for the archipelago's connectivity, Veer Savarkar International Airport can now accommodate night landings and take-offs.
This milestone follows the completion of the Airfield Lighting System (AFLS) – a crucial project undertaken under the aegis of Project MAFI (modernisation of airfield infrastructure).
The project, overseen by the Naval Headquarters in New Delhi and Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan, Commander-in-Chief of the Andaman and Nicobar Command (CINCAN), has ushered in a "quantum leap" for military aviation on the islands, a senior Command official remarked.
"The addition of AFLS, alongside the Tactical Air Navigation System (TACAN) and Precision Approach Radar (PAR), empowers Utkrosh Airfield for seamless operations around the clock," he elaborated adding that this not only bolsters strategic capabilities but also represents a momentous step towards enhancing regional connectivity and fortifying the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme.
An invitation was extended to private airline operators to leverage the night landing and take-off facilities at Port Blair.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) recently installed additional navigation aids to improve landing safety in low-visibility conditions, including the Approach Lighting System (ALS), Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI), and Instrument Landing System (ILS).
"Veer Savarkar International Airport is now equipped with cutting-edge technology, enabling smooth aircraft operations during night hours, adverse weather, and limited visibility," said Airport Director Devender Yadav.
"Previously, flight diversions due to poor weather were a frequent occurrence, causing inconvenience to passengers and inflating airfare. The operationalisation of ILS and night landing facilities has the potential to bring down airfare as well," Yadav added.
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