Srinagar Airport transforms winter flight experience

Amidst the persistent winter fog in Kashmir, Srinagar International Airport, the region’s sole civilian airport, has overcome challenging weather conditions, ensuring uninterrupted flight operations. The success is credited to a recent upgrade of the Instrument Landing System (ILS), allowing flights to operate seamlessly even in low visibility.

Civil aviation officials report that the airport’s aircraft is operating efficiently, even below the 1000-meter visibility mark, thanks to the enhanced ILS and improved Runway Visual Range (RVR). Director Javed Anjum emphasized that despite the ongoing low visibility due to fog, there have been no cancellations or delays.

Upgrades include the commissioning of CAT-I ILS, with plans for CAT-II installation by the Airforce. Anjum highlighted the objective to minimize disruption to flight operations, ensuring safety and security. Once CAT II is operational, the visibility threshold is expected to decrease to 600 meters, significantly improving winter flight operations.

Last year, the Parliamentary Standing Committee criticized the government for frequent cancellations at Srinagar International Airport, citing the absence of the latest ILS CAT-II or CAT-III. The committee urged expedited installation, emphasizing the impact on tourism and the economy. The ongoing Modernisation of Military Airfields (MAFI) project is expected to enhance operational capabilities and aerospace safety at the strategic location.