Archive · 1 Jun 2025
Obstacles Delay Advanced Runway Lighting Approval at BPIA
Imagine trying to land a plane when it's foggy.
BPIA wants a special light system to help pilots see better.
This system, called category-2 lighting, lets planes land when visibility is as low as 300 meters.
But, the government needs to approve it first.
The problem is that there are some things, like tall trees, a temple and buildings near the runway, that are in the way.
The government says these things are unsafe.
So, before the lights can be used, the airport has to remove or fix the problems.
Once the lights are working, it will be easier for planes to land in bad weather.
DGCA approval is pending for the category-2 runway lighting system at BPIA.
Obstructions, including trees and a temple, are hindering the approval process.
The new lighting system would allow planes to land with visibility as low as 300 meters.
The current lighting system allows landings with visibility of 500 meters.
A joint survey identified objects infringing on the approach light and obstacle-free zone.
- Who
- DGCA, airport authorities, and local agencies are involved.
- What
- Obstructions delay approval for an advanced runway lighting system.
- When
- The new lighting system was ready before March 31, but needs DGCA approval.
- Where
- Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) in Bhubaneswar.
- Why
- Obstacles like trees and buildings near the runway are preventing approval for an advanced lighting system.
- Lighting System Type
- Category-2
- Minimum Visibility for Landing
- 300 meters
- Current Lighting Visibility
- 500 meters
- Airport
- Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA)
- Location
- Bhubaneswar