Ground staff pacifying agitated passengers over flight delay as a part of the simulated situation during a drill at Mysuru Airport on December 13.
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Mysuru Airport authorities reviewed the fog preparedness and low visibility management through a comprehensive dry run exercise and review meeting here on December 13.
The exercise entailed the participation of all internal and external stakeholders and aimed to strengthen operational readiness, enhance inter-agency coordination, and ensure maximum passenger comfort during fog-related delays, cancellations, or diversions, according to P.V. Usha Kumari, director, Mysuru Airport.
She said the meeting focused on reviewing critical areas essential for seamless airport operations during low-visibility conditions, including timely dissemination of meteorological information from India Meteorological Department, advance coordination among all stakeholder agencies, ensuring serviceability and backup of airside, city-side, and terminal lighting systems, and readiness of all ground handling equipment.
In addition, care was taken to ensure timely display of delay/diversion information, adherence to Directorate General of Civil Aviation‑mandated passenger rights, deployment of additional manpower during disruptions, assistance for Passengers with Reduced Mobility (PRMs), elderly passengers, pregnant women, and those travelling with children, apart from coordination with hotels and taxi operators to prevent overcharging.
Full-scale drill (B/CAPS)
A full-scale drill was also conducted based on a simulated scenario involving the Mysuru–Hyderabad flight. Initially, the incoming aircraft from Hyderabad was declared “delayed” owing to fog, and passengers were given water and snacks to ensure comfort.
Subsequently, the airline announced the cancellation of the flight, leading to a simulated situation of passenger agitation. It was effectively managed by the airline staff and Karnataka State Industrial Security Force personnel.
Passengers were offered refunds or ticket rescheduling as per their preference, after which they collected their baggage and exited the terminal. Friends and relatives waiting at the city-side were also informed of the updated status, said Ms. Kumari, who oversaw the drill. Air Traffic Control officials, terminal managers, representatives from Indigo, Karnataka State Industrial Security Force, and others stakeholder representatives were present.
Published – December 13, 2025 07:39 pm IST
