The tragic crash of Air India Flight 171 shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport has cast a harsh spotlight on the deteriorating infrastructure at Indian airports. The incident, which resulted in the loss of 228 lives, including 30 on the ground, has reignited concerns over safety standards and regulatory oversight in the country’s aviation sector.
Investigations into the crash have revealed that the Ahmedabad airport’s runway extends into densely populated residential areas, lacking essential buffer zones and safety features such as arrestor beds. Despite repeated safety audits highlighting these issues, corrective measures have been stalled due to political and logistical challenges. In 2018, the Airports Authority of India requested 29.79 acres of land to extend the runway’s safety area; however, the proposal was delayed, partly due to the displacement of over 300 families. Plans for a parallel taxiway to alleviate congestion were also shelved. The crash has prompted renewed scrutiny of airport infrastructure across India. In Mumbai, for instance, encroachments near Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport have raised alarms about airspace safety. A former Air Traffic Controller and Air Safety Officer filed a Public Interest Litigation highlighting the risks posed by unauthorized buildings and inadequate safety measures.
The report suggested that the compromised safety standards could lead to catastrophic consequences, with ground casualties potentially exceeding those among passengers and crew. Similar concerns have been reported at other airports. In Delhi, a partial roof collapse at Terminal 1 during heavy rains resulted in one fatality and six injuries. Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport experienced significant disruptions due to waterlogging, leading to the diversion of flights. Guwahati’s Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport faced roof damage from heavy rainfall, and Chennai airport’s runway was flooded during Cyclone Michaung, affecting flight operations. Despite these challenges, India has made significant strides in the aviation sector. The country is the world’s third-largest domestic aviation market, with a market size of US$ 16 billion.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation’s (DGCA) audit in November 2022 reported an improvement in safety standards, with the Effective Implementation score rising to 85.65% from 69.95% in 2018. This indicates progress in the country’s aviation safety ranking. However, the recent crash underscores that infrastructure deficiencies continue to pose significant risks. The lack of buffer zones, encroachments near airports, and inadequate safety measures highlight the urgent need for comprehensive reforms. Addressing these issues requires coordinated efforts from the Airports Authority of India, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, and state governments.
As India continues to expand its aviation sector, ensuring the safety and reliability of airport infrastructure must be a top priority. The recent tragedy serves as a stark reminder that without addressing these critical issues, the country’s aviation ambitions may be jeopardized.
Also Read:Air India Announces Interim Compensation for Crash Victims
