Clear, Safe and Consistent Operating Environments are Needed to Improve Airfield Safety

-    World Aviation Safety Summit tackles runway incursion issues on day two

12 April 2017 -  Dubai, UAE: In order to keep airfields safe, flight crews needs a clear, safe and consistent operating environment that avoids confusion, according to a leading aviation expert speaking on day two of the World Aviation Safety Summit, held in Dubai. Andrew Green, Manager Aerodrome Safety & Standards, Aviation & Airports Safety Department at Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) explained that a more consistent approach is needed in terms of signs and instructions at airport runways to ensure airfield safety is kept to the highest standards. 

Andrew added that Dubai International Airport is consistent in its runway environment. He also highlighted some specific reasons why other airports are reluctant to implement best practice. These reasons include a lack of a regulatory requirement, cost of implementation, more training being required and in some cases not enough experience to implement. He also emphasized that most runway incursions occur in good met conditions, with most accidents occurring at night or in poor visibility.

Bhamidipati Srinivas, Head of Aviation Safety, Bangalore International Airport commented that improved communications is necessary to reduce runway excursions. He also called for increased training for controllers and Air Navigation Service Providers as well as improved speed control and clearer information for Automatic Terminal Information Services in global airports.  

David Gleave, a Chief Safety Investigator argued that improved instructions are needed at all runways and that geometry should always be considered in order to improve safety. 

According to IATA, last year some 3.8 billion travellers flew safely on 40.4 million flights. Flying is still the safest form of long distance travel. For IATA safety remains the top priority of all involved in aviation with a goal for every flight to depart and arrive without incident. 

Hosted by the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), WASS 2017 brings together government officials, industry experts and business leaders to discuss some of the most pressing issues facing the aviation safety sector and industry.