Kalaburagi Airport, located in Karnataka, has received approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to establish a night landing facility. This significant development, as stated in an official release on Monday, allows airlines to operate flight services at the airport regardless of weather conditions.
The permission for the night landing facility was granted on May 17, following a long-standing demand for such capabilities at Kalaburagi Airport. Inaugurated in November 2019, the airport has been actively seeking the approval to conduct night landings, which would greatly enhance its operational efficiency and connectivity.
With the DGCA’s approval, the Aerodrome License for Kalaburagi Airport has been amended from Visual Flight Rules (VFR) to Instrumental Flight Rules (IFR). This amendment enables the airport to facilitate flight operations under IFR, allowing aircraft to navigate and land using instruments, even in poor visibility conditions.
The airport features a spacious runway measuring 3175 meters in length and 45 meters in width, designated as runway 09-27. Additionally, it has an apron area that can accommodate up to three aircraft simultaneously. The apron is capable of hosting one narrow-body A-320 aircraft and two regional jets, such as the ATR 72 or Bombardier Q-400, as indicated in the release.
The approval for the night landing facility is expected to have several positive impacts on Kalaburagi Airport and the region it serves. Firstly, it significantly enhances the airport’s operational capabilities by extending its operating hours into the night. This enables airlines to offer more flexible flight schedules, increasing accessibility for passengers and cargo transportation.
Moreover, the night landing facility ensures better connectivity, as flights can now be scheduled to depart and arrive at Kalaburagi Airport during non-daylight hours. This is particularly crucial for emergencies, medical evacuations, and time-sensitive operations. The ability to operate flights in all weather conditions further enhances the airport’s reliability, reducing the likelihood of flight delays or cancellations due to adverse weather.
The approval also positions Kalaburagi Airport as a key aviation hub in the region. With the upgraded capabilities, the airport can attract more airlines and expand its route network, thereby promoting economic growth and tourism in the area.
In summary, the DGCA’s approval for the night landing facility at Kalaburagi Airport marks a significant milestone for the aviation sector in Karnataka. The amendment of the Aerodrome License from VFR to IFR enables the airport to operate flights in all weather conditions, enhancing connectivity, operational efficiency, and the overall travel experience for passengers. With its improved capabilities, Kalaburagi Airport is poised to play a crucial role in the development of the region’s air transportation infrastructure.
