After the attempt by AAI for calibration of the existing ILS turned futile, the Air Force and AAI authorities discussed the installation of a new ILS. As the existing instrument was found unfit for calibration, the only option left was for the installation of a new instrument, the proposal for which was earlier put on the backseat by the AAI.

“The AAI has signed an MoU with the Air Force authorities for installation of a new ILS. As the existing ILS is installed in the Air Force premises, AAI was awaiting the permission for its replacement. The process has been initiated,” said Chandigarh Airport Director Suneel Dutt.

The new ILS will be of the same category — CAT-I — as the previous one, which was installed by the Air Force around 15 years ago. Though the ILS does not assist in flight operations at night, it is useful during bad weather conditions. ILS CAT-I assists in aircraft landing between 2800-1200 m visibility. CAT-II assists in visibility of 200 m and above while CAT-III is operational even in zero visibility.

Though the installation process, which is likely to cost Rs 4 crore, has been initiated, it will take nearly six months for the ILS to start operations. “The process of installing an ILS has to go through certain phases which include selection of company for installation through tenders which will take minimum two months. Thus, the entire process will take over six months,” said Dutt.

During this winter, air passengers from the city faced a tough time due to the defunct ILS. Even on days with slight or negligible fog, flights could not operate. Also, many airlines suffered losses worth hundreds of crores not a single flight was operational from the city for quite a long stretch.