Ahmedabad Airport Enhances Airside Infrastructure with New Rapid Exit Taxiways
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPI) in Ahmedabad has taken a significant step towards improving its operational capabilities with the commissioning of two new rapid exit taxiways (RET). The addition of Romeo 3 (R3) and Romeo 5 (R5) marks a key upgrade in the airport's airside infrastructure, aimed at streamlining aircraft movements and reducing delays.
Key Benefits of the New Taxiways
The newly developed rapid exit taxiways are designed to allow arriving aircraft to vacate the runway more swiftly after landing. This innovation is expected to significantly reduce runway occupancy time, which is crucial during peak operational hours. By enabling faster exits, the airport can alleviate congestion, facilitate smoother aircraft movement, and enhance overall operational efficiency.
Airport officials have highlighted that this development will contribute to improved on-time performance for airlines, while simultaneously strengthening safety protocols and increasing the airport's handling capacity. The reduction in runway occupancy time not only boosts efficiency but also minimizes the risk of delays and enhances passenger experience.
Recent Infrastructure Upgrades at SVPI Airport
This latest addition follows a series of infrastructure enhancements at the Ahmedabad airport. In November of the previous year, the city airport operator operationalised a new parallel taxiway specifically for Code C aircraft. This development was aimed at significantly streamlining airside movement and boosting flight handling capacity.
The parallel taxiway allows aircraft to approach the runway directly, reducing the need for longer travel across existing taxi routes. According to experts, this has helped cut down aircraft turnaround times, improve fuel efficiency, and optimize ground traffic flow, particularly during peak operational hours.
Operational Statistics and Passenger Traffic
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport handles an average of 280 air traffic movements per day, with an annual passenger footfall of approximately 40,000. The airport has witnessed significant peaks in passenger movement, with daily numbers surpassing 47,000 around October 25-26, indicating robust traffic and the need for continuous infrastructure improvements.
The commissioning of the rapid exit taxiways R3 and R5 is a strategic move to accommodate this growing traffic and ensure that the airport remains efficient and capable of handling increased demand. These upgrades are part of a broader effort to modernize India's aviation infrastructure and support the country's expanding air travel sector.
