Madurai: To increase air traffic management and operational security, a new Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower equipped with the latest aviation-grade console at Madurai Airport is likely to be operational in a few weeks, said P. Muthu Kumar, director of the Madurai Airport. Speaking to TNIE, Muthu Kumar said that the new tower building will give the best possible view, even if the runway is extended to 3,180 meters in the future. “The new ATC has a state-of-the-art visual control room (VCR), designed with Mulian-Free Gauzing Technology, which provides a uninterrupted view for air traffic controllers, ensuring compliance with standard specifications.
This advanced design improves status awareness and safety by eliminating structural barriers in the visual field, allowing controllers to monitor the activities of the aircraft with increased accuracy, “he said. He said that once the new ATC is inaugurated, it will work parallel to the old tower for about 45 days.
Explaining the security facilities, he said that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB), Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services Department, Central Electricity Authority (CEA) and lift license have been received. The new ATC includes three emergency exit stairs in the technical block, as well as an emergency exit and a connecting corridor to have a safe withdrawal in an emergency. Box: According to the Airports Authority of India, Madurai Airport operates direct services for international destinations such as Colombo, Dubai and Singapore as well as domestic destinations like Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai and New Delhi. Construction of the new tower started in 2021, but it was delayed due to administrative reasons.
