Noida: The calibration of the Instrument Landing System (ILS) has been successfully completed at the Noida International Airport (NIA). Instrument Landing System guides pilots during takeoff and descent, especially in conditions of low visibility. Calibration is the process of adjusting a measuring instrument so that it provide accurate and consistent readings.
Airports Authority of India (AAI) in association with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) conducted the calibration process through Beech King Air 360ER, between October 10 and 14. With the airport’s opening scheduled for April 17, the completion of the calibration process confirms that all runway equipment is operational and ready to handle flights.
What is Instrument Landing System?
“The runway, fully equipped and compliant with safety regulations, is prepared for landing and takeoff. The Instrument Landing System (ILS) offers pilots accurate guidance during approach and landing, especially in poor weather. This system uses a localizer and glide path antenna. The localizer keeps the aircraft centered on the runway, while the glide path antenna ensures a safe and smooth descent,” stated Arun vir Singh, chief executive officer of NIAL, as per a report published by the Times of India.
Singh added, “The ILS is a vital safety tool that assists pilots in navigating challenging weather conditions, such as rain, fog, or haze. By providing precise guidance, it helps to reduce the likelihood of flight delays at the airport. In addition to the ILS, the PAPI system was also tested simultaneously. PAPI lights are arranged along the runway and are designed to provide pilots with visual cues regarding their correct descent angle during the final approach.”
Airport to open in April 2025
The airport concessionaire is expected to apply for an aerodrome license in December, with the aim of launching the airport in April. The license is anticipated to be granted by mid-March. The details about codes and booking will be uploaded on the website of International Air Transport Association (IATA) by Feb 6.
The initial phase of the international airport in Jewar, spanning 1,334 hectares, will include a runway and terminal capable of handling 12 million passengers per year. Future plans involve expanding the project to four phases, creating multiple airport hubs.
