Many airport projects are incorporating local cultural elements and themes in their designs.

Sandeep Gulati

Managing Director, India and South Asia, Egis

How do you assess the ongoing airport infrastructure developments in the country?

India has been actively working on the expansion and modernisation of its airport infrastructure to accommodate the growing air travel demands. Here are some key highlights of ongoing airport infrastructure developments in India:

• Regional connectivity:The Indian Government has launched the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) or UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) to enhance regional connectivity by developing airports in underserved areas. Numerous airports across the country are being upgraded and developed under this scheme.
• Greenfield airports:New greenfield airports are being planned and constructed in various cities to support the increasing air traffic. For example, the Navi Mumbai International Airport, Bhogapuram Airport, Sabarimalai Airport, etc
• Terminal expansions:Many existing airports are undergoing terminal expansions to handle higher passenger volumes. Airports like Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport, Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, and Bangalore's Kempegowda International Airport have been expanding their terminals to cater to the growing number of passengers.
• Runway extensions:Some airports are extending their runways to accommodate larger aircraft and facilitate more flight operations. The Chennai International Airport, for instance, has undergone runway extension and capacity enhancement projects.
• Modernization and technology upgrades: Airports are adopting advanced technologies and infrastructure to enhance passenger experience and operational efficiency. This includes the implementation of biometric systems, self-service kiosks, automated baggage handling, and upgraded security systems.
• Privatisation and Public-Private Partnerships (PPP):The Indian Government has been encouraging privatisation and PPP models for the development and management of airports. This approach aims to attract private investment, improve infrastructure, and enhance operational efficiency.

How do you see the airport infrastructure and aviation services in India with respected to the needs of passenger and freight transport?

Airport infrastructure and aviation services in India have been undergoing significant development in recent years to meet the needs of passengers and freight transport. India has been investing in expanding and modernising its airport, both in terms of passenger terminal and cargo facilities.

In terms of passenger needs, efforts have been made to enhance passenger amenities, such as improved check in progress, increased seating capacity, better security measures, and enhanced retail and dining options. Additionally, digital initiatives have been introduced like self-check in and online service to provide services to traveller.

In terms of freight transport, India has been focusing on improving cargo facilities and services. The creation of dedicated cargo terminals and modernization of existing facilities have been prioritized. The aim is to facilitate efficient movement of goods and enhance connectivity within the country and internationally.

What is your view on the airport developments under UDAN scheme? Are these airports being developed considering the needs? What is the scope for freight transportation at these airports?

The airport developments under the UDAN scheme are aimed at improving regional connectivity and accessibility. By developing airports in remote and underserved areas, the government aims to connect these regions with major cities and promote economic growth, tourism, and overall development. The development of airports under the UDAN scheme takes into consideration the needs of the local population and the potential demand for air travel. The selection of airports is based on various factors such as population, tourism potential, availability of infrastructure, and feasibility of operations. As for the scope of freight transportation at these airports, the primary focus of the UDAN scheme is on enhancing passenger connectivity. However, some airports developed under the scheme may also facilitate limited freight transportation.

Following the four successful rounds of bidding, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has launched the fifth round of the Regional Connectivity Scheme - UDAN to further enhance the connectivity to remote and regional areas of the country and achieve last mile connectivity.

Key features of UDAN 5.0 are as follows:

• This round of UDAN focuses on Category-2 (20-80 seats) and Category-3 (>80 seats).
• The earlier stage length cap of 600 km is waived off and there is no restriction on the distance between the origin and destination of the flight.
• Viability gap funding (VGF) to be provided will be capped at 600 km stage length for both Priority and Non-Priority areas which was earlier capped at 500 km.
• No predetermined routes would be offered. Only Network and Individual Route Proposal proposed by airlines will be considered.
• The airlines would be required to submit an action/business plan after two months from the issuance of LoA wherein they submit their aircraft acquisition plan/availability of aircraft, crew, slots, etc. at the time of the Technical Proposal.
• The same route will not be awarded to a single airline more than once, whether in different networks or in the same network.
• Exclusivity will be withdrawn if the average quarterly PLF is higher than 75% for four continuous quarters, to prevent exploitation of the monopoly on a route.
• 25% of the Performance Guarantee to be encashed for each month of delay up to four months, to further incentivize quick operationalization.
• Airlines would be required to commence operations within four months of the award of the route. Earlier this deadline was six months.
• A list of airports that are ready for operation or would soon be ready for operations has been included in the scheme to facilitate quicker operationalization of routes under the Scheme.
• Novation process for routes from one operator to another is simplified and incentivized.

UDAN scheme has benefitted a diverse set of stakeholders. Passengers have got the benefits of air connectivity, airlines have received concessions for operating regional routes, unserved regions have received the direct and indirect benefits of air connectivity for their economic development. It is another step towards the prime minister's vision of the common man traveling by air at affordable and subsidized airfares.

Delay in airport projects is a major challenge today. How do you react to this and what is the way forward?

Any major infrastructure project is vulnerable to going over budget, running behind schedule, or experiencing other issues. Airport projects unfortunately may face delays more often than other types of infrastructure construction because they are more complicated.

• Identify and address the root causes: It is crucial to identify the underlying causes of delays in airport projects. Common factors include land acquisition issues, regulatory hurdles, funding constraints, environmental concerns, and technical challenges. By addressing these issues systematically, stakeholders can work towards finding practical solutions.
• Simplifying and streamlining the approval processes for airport projects can help expedite the development timeline. This involves ensuring coordination among various government departments, minimizing bureaucratic red tape, and establishing efficient mechanisms for project clearances.
• Effective planning and project management are essential to avoid delays. A comprehensive feasibility study, accurate project timelines, realistic budgeting, and efficient resource allocation can contribute to successful project execution.
• Collaboration among all stakeholders, including government authorities, airport authorities, local communities, and relevant industry players, is crucial. Regular communication, transparency, and engagement with stakeholders can help address concerns, resolve conflicts, and facilitate smoother project implementation.
• Enhancing the capacity and skill sets of the personnel involved in airport project execution can contribute to timely completion. This includes investing in training programs, leveraging technical expertise, and fostering a culture of efficient project management.
• Engaging private sector participation through public-private partnerships (PPPs) can provide additional resources, expertise, and efficiency in airport project development. PPP models can help accelerate project timelines and mitigate delays.
• Conducting comprehensive risk assessments and developing contingency plans can help mitigate unforeseen challenges and minimize the impact of potential delays. This proactive approach allows for effective risk management and ensures timely project completion.

What are the major design innovations happening in the current airport projects?

All design innovations are planned, putting the passenger at the heart of airports.

• Sustainable design:Many airport projects are incorporating sustainable design principles to minimize environmental impact.
• Passenger experience:Modern facilities, Recreation & Leisure in Airports, Global experience in shopping and modern architecture.
• Digitalization in airports.
• Terminal flexibility:Terminal designs are being adapted to accommodate evolving passenger needs and changing aviation industry dynamics. Flexible terminal layouts with modular components and adaptable spaces allow for efficient utilization of infrastructure.
• Biophilic design principles focus on incorporating nature and natural elements into airport spaces.
• Airport projects are incorporating advanced security features to ensure passenger safety. This includes the use of state-of-the-art surveillance systems, biometric identification technologies, facial recognition, and AI-powered threat detection systems.
• Many airport projects are incorporating local cultural elements and themes in their designs to provide a sense of place and promote the local heritage.

How are advanced technologies enhancing the efficiencies of airport operations in the country? What are the latest technologies and solutions provided at the airport to make the operations more efficient and sustainable?

Passengers must be prioritized in any changes that airports and airlines make to excel in adapting to change and designing successful airport experiences during the critical decade. To enhance the customer experience advanced technologies are introduced and implemented.

• Smart Airport Management Systems: These systems utilize data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and Internet of Things (IoT) devices to gather and analyse real-time data on various aspects of airport operations.
• Biometric technologies, such as facial recognition, fingerprint scanning, and iris recognition, are being used for seamless and secure passenger identification and authentication.
• Self-service kiosks and automated baggage handling systems streamline check-in procedures and improve the efficiency of baggage handling.
• Queue management systems leverage AI and data analytics to monitor and optimize passenger flow at various checkpoints within the airport.
• Smart parking solutions utilize sensors, digital signage, and mobile apps to provide real-time information on parking availability, guide drivers to available parking spaces, and enable cashless payment systems.
• Airports are adopting sustainable energy solutions, including solar power installations, energy-efficient lighting systems, and smart energy management systems.
• Airports are implementing waste management systems that include efficient waste segregation, recycling initiatives, and proper disposal methods.

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