GoAir has requested Nashik Ozar airport to be its alternative to Mumbai airport.
It is mandatory for every airline to be assigned with a nearby airport in case of a diversion and/or emergency landing. The airport assigned as an alternative must be nearby and the airline is required to carry enough fuel to cover the distance.
The Nashik airport 200km (aerial distance) away from Mumbai, making it the closest. This move will cut fuel cost for the airline. Currently, the alternative airport to Mumbai is Ahmedabad, that is 440km away.
A senior airline executive says, “The procedure is also simple as an airline needs to take approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The only issue is the preparedness of an airport. Nashik airport’s proactive offer is a welcome step in the right direction.”
The Ozar airport is licensed by Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for public use and is equipped with night parking for airlines.
Arunima Kumar
