Kempegowda International Airport (Kia) air traffic control (ATC) is ready for a major transformation in order to accommodate future air traffic growth and adopt cutting-edge technologies.
Now operational operations May 24, 2008, coincided with the inaugural flight of Kia Airways. Over the years, this hub that is very important in terms of flight operations has seen an increase in the number of its flights managed by Airports Authority of India (AAI).
According to TOI’s spokesperson, “The airport handles 720 to 730 air traffic movements per day. Plans are underway to construct another airport air traffic control tower within the airport so as to cater for escalating demand and enhance operational efficiency.”
Adding: “Upgrades will be carried out at ATC particularly in renovations as well as new construction science and technology which should feature state-of-the-art Communication equipment.”
Sources had previously disclosed that another building would be constructed at the airport while existing ATC operations would gradually shift over time.
Accordingly, the spokesperson also said; ”Once operations are fully migrated to the new tower, existing air traffic control will be fully upgraded. This reflects significant technological changes made during this decade since it is equipped with a modern communication tool.”
This retrofitting and refurbishment process is expected to cost approximately Rs 200 crore.
In addition, our source also revealed that, ”The present ATC is good and has a lifespan of between ten and twelve years. We have yearly appraisals since we have good equipment now and certified by AAI safety agency.”
Building and establishing a new center for air traffic control might take from six months to one year. Nevertheless, a BIAL spokesperson argued that development of ATC was still in initial phases hence no more comments were provided.
