Ranchi, October 31, 2026: Birsa Munda Airport, Ranchi, successfully completed the flight calibration of its Instrument Landing System (ILS) and Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI) on Saturday. The calibration was conducted by the Flight Inspection Unit (FIU) of the Airports Authority of India (AAI), with the support of the airport's Communication, Navigation and Surveillance (CNS) team. The team actively participated in the operation under the leadership of Avinash Soreng, CNS In-charge of Ranchi Airport.
What is ILS and How Does It Work?
The Instrument Landing System (ILS) is an advanced navigation system that helps pilots land aircraft safely by providing accurate guidance regarding runway direction, altitude and descent angle. It has two main components: the Localizer, which helps keep the aircraft aligned with the runway centreline, and the Glide Path, which guides the aircraft at the correct angle and altitude during descent. The system plays a particularly important role during foggy conditions, poor visibility and adverse weather.
PAPI Plays an Important Role in Safe Landings
The Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI) consists of special lights installed alongside the runway. These lights provide visual guidance to pilots, indicating whether an aircraft is approaching at the correct altitude, too high or too low.
The CNS department manages communication between aircraft and Air Traffic Control (ATC), provides navigation guidance and ensures aircraft surveillance.
During flight calibration, a specially equipped aircraft checks the accuracy and performance of the ILS and PAPI systems to ensure that pilots receive reliable guidance during landing operations.
