‘Passenger footfall expected to reach 15 million by 2035'
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Riyan Ramanath speaks to BPIA's director, Prasanna Pradhan, as the airport adopts new technology and safety measures to keep up with the changing times. Excerpts:
BPIA has been adopting all types of modern avionics to keep pace with changing aviation requirements. What are the airport's future plans in terms of use of technology?
BPIA has been steadily adopting modern technologies to enhance operational efficiency and safety.
Considering the traffic volume and complexity of air traffic, BPIA is equipped with all types of modern communication, navigation and surveillance systems to provide Air Traffic Control Service to aircraft operating from/to Bhubaneswar airport.
Safety and security of passengers has been a concern in view of the recent plane crash in Ahmedabad. What are the lessons that BPIA needs to learn and where does it need to take corrective measures?
In view of the recent plane crash, BPIA has already conducted a safety review/audit of aircraft operation by a committee constituting all operational heads.
The airport fire station is prepared to handle any accident. We have also updated the airport emergency plan.
How is BPIA prepared to tackle bird strikes?
A trained bird and wildlife hazard control team operates throughout the day at the airport as it monitors and patrols areas like the runway, taxiways and apron. Frequent runway and airfield inspections are conducted to spot and remove things that often attract birds like food, water or nesting areas.
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Awareness drives are also conducted in surrounding areas of the airport to discourage practices that attract birds.
How do you see the safety apparatus of small airports and airstrips in Odisha?
As far as safety is concerned, all airports comply with DGCA's regulation standards.
How do you see the passenger footfall growing in the next 10 years?
BPIA handles over 4.8 million passengers annually right now and with a rising middle class, a boom in tourism, increase in business travel and growth in mining, steel, IT, health and education sectors, the number is expected to increase further. As per our projection, the annual passenger footfall is expected to reach 15 million by 2035. The airport's domestic connectivity is strong and annually growing at 16% and though international flights are limited at the moment, they are increasing.
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