Kolkata, Feb 3 (PTI) – Dense fog caused significant disruptions at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International (NSCBI) Airport on Monday, affecting the movement of at least 22 flights, officials reported.
According to airport authorities, poor visibility led to delays for six incoming flights and 16 departing flights. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) implemented Low Visibility Procedures (LVP) from 1:21 AM to 8:45 AM to ensure safe operations.
Low Visibility Procedures Activated
An AAI spokesperson explained that the Air Traffic Control (ATC) enforces LVP when visibility drops below 800 meters. During this period, 'follow-me' vehicles guide aircraft to their designated stands. LVP is also triggered when the cloud ceiling falls below 200 feet.The procedures involve meticulous coordination among the airport operator, ATC, and pilots to ensure aircraft can land, taxi, and take off safely using advanced navigation systems and ground lighting, the official added.
Instrument Landing System Helps Minimize Disruptions
Despite the fog, further delays were prevented as 33 arriving flights and 44 departing flights operated with the assistance of the Instrument Landing System (ILS).A total of 33 flights utilized either Category-II (CAT-II) ILS or Category-III (CAT-III) ILS for landing, while 44 aircraft performed low visibility take-offs (LVTOs). CAT-II ILS is activated when the runway visibility range is at least 300 meters, whereas CAT-III ILS is used when visibility drops below 300 meters.
Ongoing Weather Challenges at NSCBI Airport
Fog-related disruptions have been a recurring challenge at NSCBI Airport. On Sunday, 13 flights experienced delays due to poor visibility. Additionally, from January 23 to January 25, flight operations were significantly impacted for three consecutive days.During this period:
- 72 flights were affected on January 23,
- 34 flights faced delays on January 24,
- 53 flights encountered disruptions on January 25.