By Trend News Line 2024-07-03 08:56:12.
**Airport Accidents Caused by Fatigued Drivers**
An investigation into accidents at airports involving vehicles/equipment operators has revealed a disturbing trend – drivers falling asleep while operating in the apron area, leading to dangerous accidents. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has responded to this issue by directing ‘Ground Handling Service Providers’ to ensure that drivers/equipment operators take adequate rest before starting duty, especially during night shifts. The drivers have also been encouraged to report any feelings of fatigue to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
**Safety Measures Implemented**
In light of past incidents, the DGCA has mandated that all vehicles, except for specific emergency vehicles, should have a speed governor with a maximum speed restriction of 30 kmph. Airport managers have been advised to explore the use of technology for speed monitoring and tracking of vehicles. Additionally, the use of speed guns at vulnerable locations for monitoring vehicle speed has been recommended, with penalties such as the cancellation of Airport Driving Permits (ADP) for violations.
**Mobile Phone Ban and Training**
The DGCA has also prohibited the use of mobile phones while operating vehicles/equipment in the airside area. All stakeholders at the airport have been instructed to sensitize and train their staff to adhere to the revised guidelines to prevent ground incidents. Collisions at airports can have serious consequences, and ramp safety has been identified as a National High-Risk Category in the National Aviation Safety Plan (NASP).
**Revised Guidelines for Safety**
In a bid to address common causative factors for accidents, the DGCA has revised its guidelines to include the installation of CCTV cameras with inbuilt recording facilities in the operational area. Prompt information sharing about adverse weather conditions and thunderstorm/lightning activity to all airport stakeholders has also been emphasized. The safety advisory issued in 2007 on vehicular speed control and movement on the apron has proven effective in reducing incidents, and these new measures are aimed at further enhancing airport safety.
The tragic incidents of drivers falling asleep while operating vehicles in airport apron areas highlight the critical importance of ensuring the safety of all personnel and equipment on the ground. By implementing these revised guidelines and safety measures, the aviation industry aims to prevent such accidents and uphold the highest standards of safety and professionalism in airport operations..
– DGCA probe reveals drivers fell asleep resulting in collisions at airports ground handling
– DGCA investigation finds drivers dozing off leading to accidents in airport ground handling operations.