Surat’s 24/7 Airport Dream Faces Staff Shortages and Delays

Surat : Despite being over a year since the Airports Authority of India (AAI) decided to operationalize Surat Airport 24/7, night operations remain suspended. Critical staff shortages across departments, including Air Traffic Control (ATC), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Meteorology, Operations, and Technical teams, continue to impede round-the-clock functionality.

Surat Airport sources revealed, “We require 7–10 additional ATC personnel to handle 24-hour operations effectively. The current workforce of 17 staff managing three shifts is insufficient, against the total requirement of 27 staff.”

Flights Diverted Due to ATC Unavailability

Airlines operating on the Kolkata-Surat route have borne the brunt of these delays. For instance, an Air India Express flight scheduled to arrive early morning must often take a fuel-wasting detour due to ATC unavailability before 7:30 AM. The lack of operational efficiency impacts passenger convenience and adds operational costs to airlines.

This inefficiency is particularly disheartening, given that the Kolkata-Surat-Kolkata route once boasted significant passenger traffic. In 2018-19, the route handled 1,70,496 passengers, but the numbers dropped to 61,121 between April and September 2024. Air India Express has announced it will halt ticket bookings for this route starting January 2025, citing operational challenges.

Surat Airport Lags Behind Despite Growing Demand

Currently, Surat Airport handles 35 daily flights, including a few international routes to Dubai and Sharjah. However, limited operating hours—11 PM to 7:30 AM closures on most days—hamper its potential to expand services.

Many airlines are eager to introduce early morning and late-night flights, but the absence of 24/7 operations remains a deterrent. For instance, authorities issued a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) earlier this year outlining restricted operational hours, which further frustrates airlines and passengers.

Infrastructure Hurdles and Delays

The airport’s infrastructure development also lags behind expectations. The integrated terminal building, inaugurated in December 2023, is underutilized due to incomplete approvals. Despite receiving an in-principle nod from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), new hurdles such as demands for emergency exits have emerged.

Similarly, only three out of five aerobridges are operational. Incomplete work on the parallel taxi track delays the operationalization of the remaining aerobridges. Flights landing from certain directions face further complications due to runway design limitations.

No International Cargo Terminal

Despite being labeled an international airport, Surat lacks a dedicated cargo terminal. International flights from Surat to Dubai, Sharjah, and Bangkok have limited cargo capabilities, which impacts revenue generation. While airlines receive relief on fuel surcharges, they still struggle to sustain operations profitably.

Unmet Demand for Cat-I Lights

The installation of Category-I (Cat-I) lights remains an unfulfilled demand at Surat Airport. During winter, reduced runway visibility often leads to flight diversions. A recent meeting among stakeholders highlighted the urgent need for Instrument Landing System (ILS) GP approach lights to improve operational safety.

These lights are critical for maintaining visibility under adverse weather conditions. Their absence continues to disrupt operations and tarnish the airport’s reputation.

Surat’s Fight for Equal Treatment

Surat’s airport infrastructure pales compared to Ahmedabad’s, despite its significant passenger load and economic contributions. Local authorities often find themselves lobbying for basic upgrades, with progress occurring only under public pressure or after social media outrage.

As Gujarat’s second-largest city and a hub for diamonds, textiles, and emerging industries, Surat deserves a world-class airport. However, inefficiencies in staffing, incomplete infrastructure, and regulatory hurdles keep it far from achieving its full potential.