India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation has completed extensive preparations for the upcoming fog season through comprehensive stakeholder consultations.
Over the past two months, the Ministry engaged with airlines, airport operators, and key regulatory bodies. The aim was to enhance overall air travel efficiency during challenging weather conditions.
These preparations align with the Aviation Minister’s vision of “Ease of Flying,” focusing on minimizing delays and improving passenger experience during weather-related disruptions.
The Ministry has implemented several critical measures to achieve these goals, recognizing that fog-related challenges significantly impact both domestic and international flight operations across Northern India during winter months.
Communication and Passenger Service Improvement
Communication and passenger service improvements stand at the forefront of these initiatives. Airlines must now proactively inform travelers about potential weather-related delays or cancellations.
There will be a renewed focus on maintaining accurate passenger contact information during booking. Additionally, airlines received strict instructions to cancel flights facing delays exceeding three hours. Online Ticketing Agents have been directed to enhance their communication protocols with passengers. T
his transparent approach aims to reduce uncertainty and allow travelers to make informed decisions about their travel plans.
Operations Control Centers
The Ministry has strengthened operational coordination by directing airlines to optimize their Operations Control Centers and war-room teams.
This enhancement enables better real-time decision-making during adverse weather conditions, particularly during dense fog.
Supporting this effort, AAI has introduced new Standard Operating Procedures for Wide Area Traffic Management, ensuring better coordination between air traffic control and airline operations.
These protocols have been specifically designed to address the unique challenges posed by India’s diverse geographical and climatic conditions.
Weather Monitoring Capabilities
Weather monitoring capabilities have seen significant upgrades. The IMD has committed to maintaining uninterrupted meteorological equipment operation. It is expediting the implementation of the Advanced Weather Observation System at Delhi Airport and other fog-prone locations.
This advancement will provide more accurate and timely weather information to aviation personnel, enabling better predictability of fog conditions and their potential impact on flight schedules.
Passenger comfort and safety measures have also received attention. BCAS and CISF have conducted drills to facilitate smooth passenger re-entry during flight cancellations, with a strict 90-minute limit on aircraft holding times.
Airport Low Visibility Operations
DGCA has ensured adequate deployment of CAT II/CAT III-qualified crews and aircraft for low-visibility operations. Meanwhile, Delhi Airport has enhanced its ground infrastructure with LED visibility displays and additional “Follow-Me” vehicles.
These improvements particularly benefit early morning and late evening flights, which are most susceptible to fog-related disruptions.
Airlines have committed to maintaining full staff at check-in counters during peak hours, adhering to DGCA guidelines for handling delays and cancellations.
Through these comprehensive measures and regular stakeholder coordination, the Ministry aims to provide safer, more efficient air travel experiences during challenging weather conditions.
The enhanced staffing ensures that passengers receive prompt assistance and updates during weather-related disruptions.
Summary
The initiative demonstrates the aviation sector’s commitment to maintaining high service standards while prioritizing passenger safety and convenience during India’s fog season.
These coordinated efforts reflect a systematic approach to tackling weather-related challenges in air travel operations.
By implementing these comprehensive measures, the Ministry aims to significantly reduce the impact of fog-related disruptions on air travel. It will ensure a more reliable and comfortable experience for passengers during the challenging winter months.
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