The State and Central security agencies have highlighted the increased bird-hit risk over the international airport here as an imminent danger to civil aviation safety.
At least five airliners suffered bird hits over the airport in 2015, according to intelligence officials privy to Airports Authority Of India (AAI) data.
Airline pilots reported nine bird hits in 2014 and eight in 2013. The number of near misses could be much higher, they said. The State police are part of the airport coordination committee that oversees matters concerning aviation security. They also routinely conduct safety audits in conjunction with other stakeholders.
The airport handled 9,076 domestic and 14,929 international flights in 2015. It has a commendable safety record. Only two emergency landings and nine flight diversions, all due to bad weather, were reported this year.
An estimated 10,81,526 domestic and 21,07,036 international passengers used the airport in 2015. Their numbers have shown an encouraging upward trend over the past three years, making it imperative for airport, municipal and police authorities to moderate the threat urgently.
A veteran pilot with over 8,000 hours on Boeings told The Hindu that the bird hazard had grown more persistent over the approach path for landing in Thiruvananthapuram compared to other airports.
30/11/15 G.Anand/The Hindu
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At least five airliners suffered bird hits over the airport in 2015, according to intelligence officials privy to Airports Authority Of India (AAI) data.
Airline pilots reported nine bird hits in 2014 and eight in 2013. The number of near misses could be much higher, they said. The State police are part of the airport coordination committee that oversees matters concerning aviation security. They also routinely conduct safety audits in conjunction with other stakeholders.
The airport handled 9,076 domestic and 14,929 international flights in 2015. It has a commendable safety record. Only two emergency landings and nine flight diversions, all due to bad weather, were reported this year.
An estimated 10,81,526 domestic and 21,07,036 international passengers used the airport in 2015. Their numbers have shown an encouraging upward trend over the past three years, making it imperative for airport, municipal and police authorities to moderate the threat urgently.
A veteran pilot with over 8,000 hours on Boeings told The Hindu that the bird hazard had grown more persistent over the approach path for landing in Thiruvananthapuram compared to other airports.
30/11/15 G.Anand/The Hindu
