THE problem of adverse weather and dense fog has finally been overcome at the State capital’s Raja Bhoj Airport. After longterm efforts, the Category II (CATII) landing system was formally commissioned at the airport on Thursday. With this technical upgrade, Raja Bhoj Airport has become the first airport in Madhya Pradesh to offer this facility. This achievement places it seventh among all airports in the country and third among those operated by the Airports Authority of India (AAI).

 

This system will now prevent the diversion or cancellation of flights during bad weather conditions. Operations Possible at 350 Meter RVR: The introduction of the CAT-II Landing System allows for the safe operation of flights even when the Runway Visual Range (RVR) is reduced to 350 meters. Previously, low visibility, especially during winters, affected numerous flights. The system is expected to be highly effective in mitigating these issues. Airport Director Ramji Awasthi said, “The CAT-II landing system was completed in various phases over several months and has been made effective from November 27.

 

This will ensure the successful operation of flights even with poor visibility during bad weather.” Extensive Training and Preparation: Before the implementation of this advanced system, extensive training programs and mock drills were conducted for all stakeholders. These included Air Traffic Control (ATC), CISF, airlines, ground handling agencies, and airside operations teams. All necessary phases, including the calibration of the Airfield Ground Lighting, verification of the Instrument Landing System, and ATC readiness, were completed in accordance with DGCA rules. Paving the Way for International Flights: Over the last decade, Raja Bhoj Airport has rapidly transformed, offering better passenger facilities and expanding flight connectivity to various cities.

 

The airport has also launched Digi Yatra and Foreign Exchange Counters. With the elimination of lowvisibility constraints due to the CAT-II system, more aviation companies may begin their operations from Bhopal in the coming days. The Airport Administration believes that the start of international flights from Bhopal is now imminent.