GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 12th Feb. In response to the recent Japan Airlines crash incident, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued an Air Safety Circular on Monday, detailing mitigation strategies for Runway Incursion Risk.
The circular comes in the wake of the accident on January 2, 2024, at Haneda Airport in Tokyo, where a Japan Coast Guard DHC-8 aircraft incursion onto the runway led to a collision with Japan Airlines Flight 516 during landing. In light of this incident, DGCA(India) conducted a review of existing requirements and safety measures concerning runway safety and incursion prevention.
As a result of the review, DGCA has introduced mitigation strategies outlined in the Air Safety Circular, which is based on safety data analysis and the output of the National Aviation Safety Plan India. The circular underscores various key actions, including comprehensive training programs for Pilots, Air Traffic Controllers, Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (Clear to Taxi), and Airport Drivers.
Moreover, the circular stresses the importance of adherence to standard procedures by all personnel and stakeholders involved. It advocates for the adoption of technological interventions to enhance situational awareness, assisting Air Traffic Control (ATC) and other stakeholders in identifying traffic within the maneuvering area.
ATC is directed to ensure the activation of stop bars to signal a halt and deactivation to indicate clearance for traffic movement. The circular strictly prohibits aircraft or vehicles from crossing illuminated red stop bars. Contingency measures are also recommended for unserviceable stop bars.
Recognizing the influence of human factors on performance, the circular emphasizes the establishment of a Runway Safety Team at all aerodromes to ensure effective functioning.
