Over the past few months, a couple of disasters have been averted even when only a few flights are operating from the airport. At a time when major development projects are underway at Surat airport, these issues are hampering the airport’s growth prospects.
Recently, a private airline discontinued operations on all its routes after authorities refused to provide night parking facilities at the airport.
The issue reached top politicians, including state BJP chief CR Paatil.
In December 2021, two flights came close to each other and did not maintain the required distance in the sky, according to revelations made in an RTI reply. In November 2021, a pilot aborted landing after noticing police vehicles on the runway.
“It is unfortunate to witness a few unpleasant incidents at Surat airport regarding miscommunication between airport, general administration and ATC team. Surat airport has a history of safety and security breach many times,” said Rajesh Modian aviation enthusiast.
According to him, the safety breach issues include buffalo hit, dead fox on the runway, toy helicopter on airside, runway overshoot, frequent bird hits, ILS submergence due to flooding, height obstacles, and police vehicle incursion during anti hijacking mock drill.