Kathmandu. KATHMANDU: The Civil Aviation Office of Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) has issued a new Airside Safety Operation Procedure (Airside Safety Operation Procedure) in order to make the on-ground operation of Tribhuvan International Airport more safe, qualitative and in compliance with international standards. The new safety guideline, approved by the airport’s general manager, tightens passenger safety, runway surveillance, waste management and discipline of staff working on the ramp.
According to the new rules, there is a complete ban on taking photos, making videos, recording or sharing them on social media without permission from entering a safe or restricted area of the airport. Those who violate such rules will be fined as per the Safety Act.
Drivers, ground handling staff and technicians will undergo a surprise breath alcohol test before or during duty. It is stated in the directive that strict action will be taken by cancelling the entry pass of the airport immediately if anyone is found consuming alcohol or drugs.
They have been asked to pay special attention while transporting passengers to Hajj, to make it mandatory for passengers with wheelchairs and disabilities to use ambulifts, and to take them near the bus only after the engine of the aircraft is completely turned off. Also, due to the proximity of the Bagmati and Manohara rivers, throwing food and garbage on the ramp area has been banned to minimise the risk of birds.
As open food attracts birds and stray animals and poses a risk to flight safety, arrangements have been made to keep the waste in closed containers and take it out on the same day.
As there is only one runway, it is mandatory twice a day to keep the runway clean and safe and there will be an emergency inspection during bad weather, according to the Airport Office.
