12 October 2023 02:00 am Views - 262
Sri Lanka recently saw the rollout of an Aeronautical Information Management (AIM) System, which represents a significant advancement in the delivery of aeronautical navigation information services.
The state-of-the-art system was implemented at a cost of Rs.1.2 billion.
The Ports, Shipping and Aviation Ministry stated that the system empowers pilots, air traffic controllers and airlines to provide and maintain a high-quality aeronautical navigation information service, indispensable for the safe, profitable and efficient execution of flight operations.
The Top-Sky AIM system made in France by Thales went into operation at Bandaranaike International Airport from October 10.
“As per the recommendations of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), flight operations conducted at Sri Lanka’s airstrip have been executed with a commendable emphasis on safety.
Our airport has earned a notable evaluation from the ICAO, securing an impressive score of 92, establishing it as a leader in aviation operations across Southeast Asia,” Ports, Shipping and Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva was quoted as saying in a statement issued by the ministry.
By implementing this new computer operating system, the Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP), widely regarded as the cornerstone of aeronautical information service, would be easily accessible and updated using digital technology, it added.
=According to the ministry, the digitisation of the cartography section pertaining to the Aeronautical Information Service promises more precise aeronautical maps and charts, along with timely updates for new changes.
With the new system, pilots or their representatives can submit their flight plans online without the need to visit the Air Traffic Services Reporting Office, streamlining the process and improving efficiency.
Moreover, pilots now will have speedy access to all pre-flight information bulletins that impact their safety during flights. Additionally, they can receive updates to their flight plan, concerning changes in other flight information regions, leading to improved flight plan management.