GUWAHATI, Aug 18 � In a bid to modernize the air traffic control system and ensure better safety for aircraft, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has chalked out a mega expansion plan for the Lokapriya Gopinath Bardoloi International (LGBI) Airport. The new plan includes installation of a GPS-aided Geo Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) system, air traffic services automation system and upgradation of CAT-I, Instrument Landing System (ILS).
�GAGAN is a nationwide project involving nearly Rs 774 crore, and we are going to implement it at the LGBI Airport. The project is being implemented by the AAI with the help of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO),� highly-placed official sources told this correspondent today.
Providing feedback on GAGAN, the sources said that it would provide accurate navigation system for all phases of flight over Indian airspace and its adjoining areas. �In the next few years Indian airspace will get more crowded and the chances of accidents may increase. To reduce the risk of future air disasters, the Civil Aviation Ministry has undertaken this project,� they said, adding that the system (GAGAN) would enable airlines to chart out direct routes as they would be less dependent on the ground-based radar systems, save fuel and increase efficiency.
The final operation phase of GAGAN is likely to be completed by 2011. The North East is dominated by hilly terrain for which the AAI has taken extra safety measures for movement of aircraft plying in the region.
The sources further added that construction work of the air traffic automation system would be carried out from December which would further improve the quality of the traffic system. �We are also in the process of installation of a full-fledged CAT-I, ILS in the airport that will enhance flight safety during landing and low visibility,� the sources claimed.
It is learnt that the AAI is also mulling better infrastructure for the other airports spread across the region in view of increasing number of passengers.
The LGBI Airport is the sixth busiest airport in the country in terms of volume of passengers. According to statistics, last year the LGBI Airport witnessed a footfall of 13, 76,086. There are about 107 daily movements of aircraft (landing and take-off).
Meanwhile, the DoNER Ministry is now pursuing a proposal with the Civil Aviation Ministry to increase connectivity in the North East by introducing small aircraft.
