Managing higher passenger traffic, aircraft traffic, efficient aircraft turnaround times, handling protocol, and maintaining cleanliness and hygiene standards are a few challenges faced during special events. Coordination with various stakeholders, including airlines and security agencies helps overcome these challenges and ensure smooth operations are maintained. Jamnagar’s Airport Director Dhananjay Kumar Singh enumerates how the airport embarked on a maintenance strategy to achieve operational excellence and sustainability goals.
Jamnagar Airport serves as a domestic airport and an Indian Air Force base in vibrant Gujarat. It is the only airport in Gujarat with two runways that permit commercial as well as private flights. In light of high-profile events hosted in the city of Jamnagar, the airport has risen to the occasion, deftly handling numerous challenges associated with infrastructure, operations, maintenance, and logistics. Dhananjay Kumar Singh says, “The airport reached a historical moment as it received an ‘international airport status’ for 10 days. Tackling infrastructure and logistical challenges, including the arrival and departure of aircrafts, and handling high-profile national and international guests, was a well-coordinated effort by the airport team. Meetings with staff and shareholders, together with support offered by other agencies made the mission successful. The entire experience was a great learning curve for all staff involved. The biannual Customer Service Index conducted by AAI ranked Jamnagar Airport at number 12 and this was a good accolade to receive for the hard work.”
Maintenance and Sustainability
Routine checks and repairs combined with advanced technologies and green practices, offer a good strategic approach to airport maintenance.
Service providers prioritize safety and efficient operations through regular inspections and infrastructure maintenance such as Terminal, Apron, and parking facilities. Sustainable practices are implemented through energy-efficient lighting, waste management, and water conservation measures, to reduce the environmental impact.
Hygiene and Cleanliness
Touchless automatic sensor-based taps in washrooms and urinals, touchless hand driers, and automatic air fresheners are some of the technologies introduced to enhance commuters’ experience. Regular inspections and audits ensure stringent standards are followed for food safety and washroom hygiene.
Sustainability Goals
Jamnagar Airport has worked tirelessly through various initiatives and partnerships to fulfil AAI’s goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2025. Jamnagar Airport has achieved the target of 100% Renewal Energy (RE) by switching to Green Power Tariff from August-2023, thereby contributing to reduce carbon footprint, conserve water, and promote ESG.
Best Practices for a New Airport
A new airport should prioritize passenger experience by using technology for safety and security and adopt sustainable practices to reduce the environmental impact. This way, a new airport can define its role as a hub for connectivity, innovation, and sustainability.
Smart Solutions
Advanced traffic management systems improve traffic flow and safety within the airport premises. Smart logistics solutions ensure efficient handling and transportation of goods. Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) options and the usage of electric vehicles for ground transportation are some options currently explored by AAI and its stakeholders.
Airport Traffic and Service Providers
Roughly 600 passengers travel through the Jamnagar airport, daily. Ground handling, security, airlines, and retail operators are engaged through different service providers. Airlines including Air India and Star Air, handling agencies such as Kalinga and AIASL, and fuelling agents like Jio-BP and IOCL are a few of the service providers for Jamnagar Airport.
Cleaning and Sanitation
Regular cleaning and sanitation practices ensure an all-round clean environment within the airport premises. Cleaning frequency is increased during high-profile events to ensure compliance with hygiene protocols.
With attention to detail and adherence to global standards, Jamnagar Airport has successfully ensured the smooth functioning of critical facilities. The commitment to prioritize sustainability and best practices enables Jamnagar Airport to navigate new challenges in the aviation space.
