Friday, August 16, 2013

Use of cell phones banned in operational areas of airports

New Delhi: In order to reduce air traffic accidents and prevent distraction during sensitive air traffic operations on the ground, Airport Authority of India (AAI) under the Civil Aviation Ministry has banned the use of cell phones in operational areas. Air Traffic Control (ATC) is responsible for managing air traffic, providing information and assistance to pilots and preventing collisions. AAI said use of cell phones while performing ATC duties may distract controllers carrying out highly sensitive jobs,  triggering omission of action or inappropriate action.
AAI said, though cell phones have become more common and an integral part of everyday life, if used at ATC units, there might be an adverse impact on efficiency of controllers and safety of aircraft operations. The authority said use of cell phones is likely to trigger human and technical error.
“Electromagnetic interference from mobile device causes interference in ATC communication systems. This may result in inaccurate information exchange with other ATC units or flight crew of an aircraft leading to unsafe situations,” AAI said.
16/08/13 New Indian Express
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