BIAL signs deal with KUNZ GmbH to acquire disabled aircraft recovery equipment

Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) and KUNZ GmbH entered into an agreement to manufacture, supply, commission and maintain specialised Disabled Aircraft Recovery Equipment (DARE) for the Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (KIAB).

After the commissioning of this equipment, KIAB will become the first airport in the country with the capability effect recovery of disabled aircraft up to Code F category, enabling faster resumption of operations during aircraft incidents on runways, BIAL said in a statement.

Under this agreement, KUNZ GmbH agreed to collectively establish a centre for disabled aircraft recovery training with BIAL, leading to KIAB the first such type of airport in the region to have such a facility.
This facility is expected to develop and expand the skill set in India, it said.

"The acquisition of this equipment boosts BLR Airports operational capability during runway emergencies, said Mr Thomas Hoff Andersson, Chief Operating Officer, BIAL.

The disabled aircraft on the runway have the probability to disturb the airport operations, leading to flight delays, diversions and loss of revenue for both airlines as well as airport operators.

"Kunz is honoured to have received this contract from BIAL to not only equip the airport with a wide range of Kunz Aircraft Recovery Products, but also enter into a strategic partnership to establish a centre of competency for aircraft recovery training in the region along with local support of Millennium Aero Dynamics. Together with our strong partner BIAL, we will develop a competent training centre in Bengaluru to reduce the downtime of airports during recovery situations and increase awareness to avoid secondary damage to aircraft during the recovery operation," said Mr Andreas Fuge, Managing Director of KUNZ GmbH.

A team of Recovery Managers is made by BIAL who will undergo extensive hands-on training at KUNZ GmbHs recovery training facility in Germany.

Moreover, a Quick Response Recovery Team will also be made and imparted with technical knowledge to respond to critical situations, stated the BIAL.

According to the BLR Airport's requirements a kit will be customised consisting of multiple components. This will include ground preparation tools, aircraft lifting, de-bogging, tethering, towing, and all other associated aspects of both narrow- and wide-body aircraft.

Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and IBEF is not responsible for any errors in the same.