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The aviation industry in India is witnessing a rapid surge in air traffic demands, prompting Airports Authority of India (AAI) and other Airport Operators to devise a comprehensive plan to cater to this escalating need.
With a strategic capital outlay of approximately INR 98,000 crore scheduled for implementation between 2019 and 2024, a significant expansion and modernisation of infrastructure facilities at airports are on the horizon. This ambitious initiative aims to construct Greenfield Airports, develop new terminals, bolster existing terminals, and strengthen runways, among other crucial projects.
Sharing this and more in a written reply to Lok Sabha questions, the Minister of State in the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Dr V. K. Singh, said that the continuous growth in air travel across India necessitates proactive efforts to ensure sufficient airport capacity and smooth travel experiences for passengers. Thus, AAI and other Airport Operators have set their sights on a massive capital outlay to cater to the burgeoning demand.
The planned investment will lay the foundation for robust and efficient aviation infrastructure, offering convenience and comfort to travellers from various regions.
Transitioning towards sustainable aviation:
Recognising the pressing need to address environmental concerns and reduce the aviation industry’s carbon footprint, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has pledged to achieve Sustainable Aviation in collaboration with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Operating under the principles and provisions of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the MoCA envisions a greener and more sustainable future for Indian aviation, Singh mentioned
One of the central tenets of sustainable aviation is striving for carbon neutrality and net-zero emissions. MoCA has advised airport operators and developers to adopt carbon mitigation measures and develop comprehensive carbon management plans. As a result, numerous airports have taken strides towards sustainability, employing renewable energy sources, optimising operational procedures, and integrating alternative fuels in ground handling vehicles.
Notably, 55 airports, including 49 managed by AAI, have successfully transitioned to 100 per cent green energy, marking a significant achievement in the industry’s sustainable transformation.
To ensure a unified effort in minimising aviation emissions and their impact on climate change, DGCA has issued the Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR), Section 10 titled ‘Aviation Environmental Protection,’ Series B, Part I. This comprehensive requirement outlines the general procedures and practices that stakeholders must follow to reduce their carbon footprint. Airlines have also implemented measures like weight reduction in aircraft, moisture and dirt prevention, and optimised speed and flap management to contribute to these sustainability endeavors.
In collaboration with the Indian Air Force, AAI has also taken proactive steps to optimize airspace utilization through the Flexible Use of Airspace (FUA) initiative. This optimisation has resulted in a reduction of CO2 emissions, further contributing to sustainable aviation objectives.
Set in a spectacular location with a mountainous backdrop, the resort is accessible from Maharana Pratap Airport Udaipur and Udaipur City Junction Train Station within two hours. The resort’s strategic location ensures convenient access to other prominent attractions, including the revered Ranakpur Jain Temple and the captivating wildlife of Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary.
Revolutionising Airport Projects:
In an effort to minimise energy consumption in existing and upcoming airport projects, AAI has initiated measures to reduce the use of energy-intensive equipment. They have also published Energy Intensity Data and implemented a training module for Air Traffic Controllers to raise awareness about carbon neutrality as part of their induction training program.
Regional Connectivity:
The Ministry of Civil Aviation launched the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) – UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) to stimulate regional air connectivity and make air travel affordable for the masses.
Operationalising 479 UDAN routes involving 74 Airports/Heliports/Water Aerodromes across the country, the Government has set an ambitious target of operationalizing 1000 UDAN routes and reviving/developing 100 unserved & underserved airports/heliports/water aerodromes in the country by 2024 for UDAN flights, Singh informed.
Enhancing Airport Safety and Security:
The aviation safety regulator, DGCA, and the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) are committed to ensuring stringent safety and security measures at airports. Advanced technologies like Computer Tomography Explosive Detection Systems (CT-EDS) machines, Dual Generator X-BIS machines, and Automated Tray Retrieval System (ATRS) are being employed to bolster security infrastructure. Additionally, measures such as Minimum Technical specifications for Perimeter Intrusion Detection System (PIDS), Full Body Scanners, Radiological Detection Equipment (RDE), and Biometric Centralized Access Control Systems are being planned and implemented to enhance airport safety, shared Singh.
Regulatory authorities offer comprehensive training guidelines for security personnel working in airport security units, aircraft operators, and other regulated agencies.
Regular training programs for Aviation Security Group personnel aim to develop soft skills, communication proficiency, and behavioral aspects, ensuring a secure and seamless travel experience for passengers, the minister stated.
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