Rising air traffic and past near-misses have prompted AAIB to push for video monitoring of all ATC towers at international airports. The goal: Slash accident risks through transparent, verifiable control room operations.
Detailed in a comprehensive report, the recommendation calls for 24/7 CCTV coverage, integrated with existing voice recorders. This dual-system approach would enable precise accident reconstructions, identifying human errors or systemic flaws swiftly.
Background: Recent probes into minor incidents revealed how absent visuals led to inconclusive findings. A 2022 runway incursion at a metro airport, for instance, left questions unanswered without tower sightlines.
Technical specs include multi-angle cameras, night vision, and cloud storage for 30-day retention. AAI estimates initial setup at ₹500 crore nationwide, offset by insurance savings and enhanced credibility.
Global aviation bodies applaud the idea, citing Europe’s EASA mandates for similar tech. In India, it aligns with DGCA’s safety roadmap. Controllers’ associations seek assurances on data usage, promising smoother adoption.
This isn’t just surveillance—it’s a safety revolution. With implementation on the horizon, air travelers can breathe easier knowing every tower decision is backed by unblinking evidence.