MP DT Lepcha Boldly Questions Pakyong Airport’s Operational Challenges in Raj: A Stirring Revelation
MP Lepcha Raises Concerns Over Pakyong Airport’s Operational Challenges in Rajya Sabha
GANGTOK: In a recent session of the Rajya Sabha, Sikkim MP D.T. Lepcha highlighted the operational challenges facing Pakyong Airport since its inception in 2018. Chief among these issues are the frequent flight cancellations due to poor visibility, particularly exacerbated during the monsoon season.
Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, responded in a written reply, confirming that Pakyong Airport, which operates under Visual Flight Rules (VFR), encounters significant difficulties during monsoons. "Pakyong Airport can sustain flight operations with a ground visibility of five kilometers or more; however, monsoon visibility often plummets to 500 meters or less, complicating flight operations," stated Mohol.
In an effort to combat this problem, the government adopted a Required Navigation Performance (RNP) approach at Pakyong Airport in January 2021. This measure effectively reduced the visibility requirement to 2400 meters, resulting in a 75% decrease in flight cancellations. Despite these improvements, the challenge of poor visibility during monsoon persists.
Looking ahead, the Minister mentioned potential enhancements, including the installation of advanced navigation systems at the airport. A feasibility study for implementing a GAGAN-based navigation aid recommended modifying the surrounding hilly terrain to facilitate its use. However, the installation of an Instrument Landing System (ILS) remains constrained by space, topographical challenges, and the necessity for additional land and clearance of hills and trees.
The ongoing efforts highlight the government’s commitment to improving air connectivity in Sikkim, despite the natural and logistical hurdles that Pakyong Airport faces. The dialogue in Rajya Sabha underscores the critical need for continued advancements to ensure reliable operations at this strategically important airport.
Original Story https://www.sikkimexpress.com/news-details/mp-dt-lepcha-questions-pakyong-airports-operational-challenges-in-rajya-sabha
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