+
DGCA approves special VFR Operations at Deoghar Airport, Jharkhand
AVIATION & AIRPORTS

DGCA approves special VFR Operations at Deoghar Airport, Jharkhand

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has granted permission for specialised Visual Flight Rules (VFR) operations at Deoghar Airport in Jharkhand, with the aim of enhancing aircraft operations in situations of low visibility. The airport had faced multiple flight cancellations and delays since its inauguration in July 2022, primarily due to low visibility conditions. The prescribed minimum visibility criteria of 5,000 meters for VFR operations had imposed constraints on air travel during adverse weather conditions.

Special VFR operations involve conducting flights in weather conditions where visibility is below the basic VFR minima. This approach strategically manages adverse weather conditions, ensuring the uninterrupted operation of flights at Deoghar Airport.

Recognising the disruptions caused by cancellations and delays during low visibility, the DGCA issued a statement on Thursday. In response to this challenge, the regulatory body engaged in extensive consultations with stakeholders and conducted a comprehensive study on the feasibility of Special VFR operations. Subsequently, the airport operator developed a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) delineating the processes for Special VFR operations, which received approval from the DGCA.

In a notable shift in aviation practices, the DGCA granted approval for Special VFR operations to and from Deoghar after evaluating successful flight trials and the implementation of mitigation measures by operators. This approval represents a significant advancement, particularly as it is the first time such operations have been introduced for commercial flights.

The introduction of Special VFR operations is also viewed as a crucial step in enhancing connectivity for smaller airfields, aligning with the Udan/RCS Scheme of the Government of India.

Prior to approval, a flight trial was conducted to validate the efficacy of the procedures. This trial, conducted without passengers on board, involved coordination among airline operators, pilots, Air Traffic Control (ATC), and the Air Force. The successful validation flights confirmed the effectiveness of the proposed Special VFR operations.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has granted permission for specialised Visual Flight Rules (VFR) operations at Deoghar Airport in Jharkhand, with the aim of enhancing aircraft operations in situations of low visibility. The airport had faced multiple flight cancellations and delays since its inauguration in July 2022, primarily due to low visibility conditions. The prescribed minimum visibility criteria of 5,000 meters for VFR operations had imposed constraints on air travel during adverse weather conditions. Special VFR operations involve conducting flights in weather conditions where visibility is below the basic VFR minima. This approach strategically manages adverse weather conditions, ensuring the uninterrupted operation of flights at Deoghar Airport. Recognising the disruptions caused by cancellations and delays during low visibility, the DGCA issued a statement on Thursday. In response to this challenge, the regulatory body engaged in extensive consultations with stakeholders and conducted a comprehensive study on the feasibility of Special VFR operations. Subsequently, the airport operator developed a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) delineating the processes for Special VFR operations, which received approval from the DGCA. In a notable shift in aviation practices, the DGCA granted approval for Special VFR operations to and from Deoghar after evaluating successful flight trials and the implementation of mitigation measures by operators. This approval represents a significant advancement, particularly as it is the first time such operations have been introduced for commercial flights. The introduction of Special VFR operations is also viewed as a crucial step in enhancing connectivity for smaller airfields, aligning with the Udan/RCS Scheme of the Government of India. Prior to approval, a flight trial was conducted to validate the efficacy of the procedures. This trial, conducted without passengers on board, involved coordination among airline operators, pilots, Air Traffic Control (ATC), and the Air Force. The successful validation flights confirmed the effectiveness of the proposed Special VFR operations.

Next Story
Real Estate

Manglam, Fern Hotels Sign 200+ Key Apart’otel in Jaipur’s Pinkwalk

Manglam Group has signed a 200+ key serviced apart’otel under the Fern Habitat brand in Jaipur, marking a key milestone in its Rs 10 billion hospitality investment strategy. Located within Pinkwalk, Manglam’s flagship mixed-use development in Jagatpura, the project will cater to both short and extended-stay travellers with apartment-style units paired with hotel services. The Fern Habitat Pinkwalk will offer fully serviced accommodations with kitchenettes, daily housekeeping, and on-site dining. The concept blends the independence of apartment living with the comfort of hotel-grade am..

Next Story
Real Estate

Schon Doorways Launches Monsoon-Ready Aluminium Casement Windows

Schon Doorways, a premium player in doors and window solutions, has launched its new range of aluminium casement and sliding windows, designed specifically to endure the Indian monsoon. Engineered with high-performance tempered glass and ultra-slim aluminium profiles, the windows combine aesthetic appeal with monsoon resilience. Available in single and double track options, the windows offer anti-collision strips, flyscreens, and high load-bearing strength—providing protection against heavy rains, strong winds, and pests. Wall thickness ranges from 1.6 mm to 5.00 mm, offering flexibilit..

Next Story
Resources

LG Charts Global HVAC Leadership With AI, Acquisitions and Localisation

LG Electronics has unveiled a strategic roadmap to transform its ES Company into a top-tier global HVAC solutions provider by 2030, targeting KRW 20 trillion in revenue. The plan, announced at LG Sciencepark, South Korea, focuses on expanding B2B industrial sales, advancing AI-based technologies for data centres, and strengthening localised operations across key regions. Central to LG’s roadmap is growth in the fast-expanding data centre cooling segment. With the global chiller market projected to reach USD 12 billion by 2027, LG aims for KRW 1 trillion in sales by 2027. The company has..

Advertisement

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?