Noida International Airport (NIA) has made significant progress towards its official opening with the successful calibration of Instrument Landing System (ILS) and Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI), essential navigation instruments that ensure the highest safety standards for aircraft landing. This milestone, completed on October 14, marks a critical phase in NIA’s operational readiness, highlighting its commitment to creating a cutting-edge aviation hub in India.
A Beech King Air 360ER aircraft operated by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) conducted the calibration process, in collaboration with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to ensure optimum compatibility and accuracy. The calibration process began on October 10 and included careful testing of both the ILS and PAPI systems. These systems are integral to supporting safe and efficient landings, especially during low visibility conditions, such as heavy fog or rain, which present common aviation safety challenges.
Understanding ILS and PAPI
The Instrument Landing System (ILS) is an advanced navigation aid that enhances a pilot’s accuracy during approach and landing, especially in adverse weather conditions. It consists of two main components, a positioning component that helps align the aircraft with the center line of the runway by providing horizontal guidance, allowing pilots to accurately maintain their course during an approach and a glide path antenna that provides vertical guidance, guiding the aircraft along a safe path. Landing angle to the runway.
ILS technology has become a standard at major airports globally for its ability to reduce delays and support consistent and safe landings, ultimately reducing operational disruptions during inclement weather. At Noida International Airport, the successful calibration of this system is expected to enhance its operational efficiency, improve safety protocols, and establish it as a trusted hub for both domestic and international flights.
In addition to the ILS, the PAPI is another important safety component calibrated during this process. The system consists of a series of lights positioned alongside the runway to visually indicate the correct landing angle to pilots. This setting is effective in helping pilots maintain a safe approach, supporting safe landings in all visibility conditions.
The importance of calibration
The calibration of these systems aligns Noida International Airport with international safety and operational standards, paving the way for its expected operational launch. As NIA prepares to position itself as one of India’s leading airports, these developments are crucial to achieving its goal of meeting global standards in passenger safety, navigation and efficiency.
This achievement reflects the progress made by NIA in creating high-performance aviation infrastructure and demonstrates India’s commitment to expanding its airport facilities to meet the needs of the rapidly growing aviation market. For passengers and airlines, this achievement promises enhanced reliability and reduced delays, contributing to a positive experience for those traveling to and from Noida.
