BIA unveils cutting-edge AIM system

Monday, 30 October 2023 00:29 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The country’s main airport, Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake marked a significant milestone with a ceremony unveiling the Aeronautical Information Management (AIM) system replacing traditional paper-based methods.

This state-of-the-art system established with a cost of Rs. 1.2 billion was inaugurated by Ports, Shipping, and Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in the aviation industry.

“The initiation of the AIM system at BIA marks a significant stride towards enhancing Sri Lanka’s aviation capabilities and reaffirms the country’s commitment to safety and technological advancement in the aviation sector,” the Minister said.

The Top Sky AIM system, manufactured by Thales in France, is set to be fully operational at BIA, revolutionising the way aeronautical navigation information is accessed and utilised.

The AIM system considered the cornerstone of Aeronautical Information Service, will now be seamlessly available and updated through digital technology, signifying a significant stride towards a paperless Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP) process. One of the key advantages of this cutting-edge system lies in its capacity to enhance the quality and precision of aeronautical maps and charts, along with ensuring timely updates for new changes.

The digitisation of the cartography section is poised to usher in a new era of accuracy and efficiency. Pilots and airlines will experience a streamlined flight planning process, as the new system enables online submission of Flight Plans, eliminating the need for physical visits to the Air Traffic Services Reporting Office. Additionally, pilots will have swift access to critical Pre-Flight Information Bulletins, enhancing safety measures during flights.

Minister de Silva highlighted the commendable safety emphasis in flight operations at Sri Lanka’s airstrips, aligning with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) recommendations. This commitment to safety has earned Sri Lanka’s airport a noteworthy evaluation, securing a remarkable score of 92 positioning it as a regional leader in aviation operations.

The Minister attributed this achievement to the utilisation of cutting-edge technical equipment and praised the unwavering dedication and expertise demonstrated by professionals in the aviation sector. The Department of Electronic and Air Navigation Engineering played a pivotal role in achieving this groundbreaking milestone.

The event was attended by distinguished figures including Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Ltd. Chairman Major General (Retd.) G.A. Chandrasiri, Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL) Chairman G.S. Vithanage, and CAASL Director-General P.K. Jayakantha, among several other officials.