DGCA approves special visual flight rules operations at Deoghar airport

New Delhi: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has approved special visual flight rules (VFR) operations at Deoghar airport in Jharkhand, a move that will allow aircraft operations at low visibility.

Introduction of Special VFR Operations

The minimum visibility criteria for VFR operations is 5,000 meters. However, due to low visibility at the Deoghar airport, which was inaugurated in July 2022, there have been delays and cancellations of flights.

Extensive Consultations and Studies

After extensive consultations with stakeholders, an extensive study on the scope of Special VFR was carried out. Subsequently, a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) was formulated by the airport operator and approved by the DGCA.

Flight Trials and Mitigation Measures

On the basis of satisfactory flight trials and mitigation measures taken by operators, approval for Special VFR to/from Deoghar has been granted by DGCA. The special VFR operations are being introduced for the first time for commercial flights and mark a paradigm shift, which will address delays/cancellation of flights on account of low visibility and will pave the way for enhancing connectivity for other such smaller airfields thereby, promoting Udan/RCS Scheme of Government of India.

Prior to the Approval

Prior to the approval, a flight trail was conducted to validate the efficacy of the procedures and coordination among airline operators, pilots, Air Traffic Control (ATC), and the Air Force. This flight trial with no passengers onboard, with a flight operation inspector on board, demonstrated the procedures in real-time, which was followed by satisfactory validation flights.

Significance of Special VFR Operations

Generally, Special VFR operations refer to operating in weather conditions where the visibility is less than the basic VFR minima. The introduction of Special VFR operations at Deoghar airport will allow aircraft operations at low visibility, reducing delays and cancellations of flights. This will enhance connectivity to smaller airfields and promote the Udan/RCS Scheme of the Government of India.

The approval of Special VFR operations at Deoghar airport is a significant step towards enhancing air connectivity and promoting regional development. By allowing aircraft operations at low visibility, the move will reduce flight delays and cancellations, benefiting passengers and airlines alike.