Kolkata airport enhances safety with weekly runway tests

Kolkata's airport has improved flight safety with a new runway friction test vehicle. This vehicle is important for maintaining the runway, ensuring that planes can land safely. It measures how well the runway surface grips the tires of landing aircraft. If the friction is too low, planes can skid or overshoot when landing. Airbus A-320 and Boeing B-737 planes, often used for domestic flights, usually land at speeds around 260 kilometers per hour. They weigh about 64 tonnes, so effective braking is vital to stop them safely after touchdown. Over time, rubber from landing planes can reduce runway friction. To test the runway, a fire truck first sprays water on it. Then, the testing vehicle travels down the wet runway at 120 kilometers per hour, recording friction levels with special sensors. This data is displayed like an electrocardiogram (ECG). If friction is low, the airport must use a machine to remove rubber deposits to improve safety and follow regulations from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Kolkata airport tested runway friction monthly. In 2022, the DGCA increased this requirement to every two weeks. Recently, they mandated weekly tests. However, there was only one testing vehicle available for multiple airports in the region, making it difficult for Kolkata airport to comply. Now, with the new dedicated friction testing vehicle, the airport aims to meet the stricter safety standards set by the DGCA. An airport official expressed relief that the airport can now ensure safer flight operations.