Cochin International Airport Limited has strengthened its airside safety infrastructure with the induction of a state-of-the-art runway rubber removal machine called CleanJet. The new equipment has been introduced at Kochi to improve runway surface condition and operational safety. The airport authority has brought the machine into service as part of routine maintenance upgrades. The induction forms part of a wider programme to maintain compliance with civil aviation safety standards.

Each aircraft on touchdown deposits about one and a half pounds of rubber per tyre in the touchdown zone, and these deposits accumulate over time. The build-up clogs cavities and the microstructure of the runway surface, producing a polished, glassy finish that reduces runway friction. Anlon Technology Solutions advised that the resulting reduction in friction increases the braking distance required by aircraft and therefore the runway length needed for safer landings, particularly in wet conditions. Engineers noted that regular removal helps preserve skid resistance and reduces wear on braking systems.

The machine uses high-pressure water jets operating at around 2,500 bar together with specially angled rotating discs to dislodge embedded rubber deposits. The loosened material is immediately suctioned into a waste-water tank so that no water or residue remains on the runway surface. Manufacturer Anlon Technology Solutions supplied the equipment and provided technical support for its induction. The process includes containment measures and treatment of collected effluent to meet environmental safeguards.

CIAL expects routine use of the system to restore surface texture and reduce the frequency of runway friction-related restrictions, improving operational resilience. The removal process is intended to limit the time runways are out of service for maintenance and to support safer landing operations throughout the year. Airport engineers will monitor results and adjust maintenance schedules as needed to sustain surface performance. Operational data will inform future procurement and scheduling to optimise runway availability.