Indian Navy to Take Control of Visakhapatnam's Skies
Visakhapatnam's airspace will be exclusively managed by the Indian Navy starting July 9, aiming to separate civil and military operations and enhance civilian air capacity in eastern India.
Highlights
- •New ATS Routes: V40, V50, V63, W32, and W89 introduced
- •Airway Rerouting: J26 airway rerouted to ENVUK via BHZ beacon
- •Exclusive Naval Operation Zones: Replacing previously withdrawn zones
- •New Air Traffic Management: Civil aircraft now require clearance from Visakhapatnam control
Starting on July 9, the Indian Navy will assume full control over Visakhapatnam's restructured airspace. This transition marks a significant step in separating civil and military air traffic operations, aligning with the growing demand for civilian air capacity in India's eastern region.
The shift from dual-use to exclusive naval jurisdiction is driven by strategic considerations and ongoing efforts to streamline air travel within the area. The Navy has recently taken charge of the erstwhile Alluri Sitarama Raju Greenfield International Airport at Bhogapuram, which will serve as a scalable aviation hub equipped with advanced navigational systems.
Air Traffic Management
The restructuring involves introducing new airways and adjusting existing routes. V40, V50, V63, W32, and W89 are among the five new ATS (Air Traffic Service) routes, each designed to improve traffic flow. Several existing corridors have also been modified for better efficiency, including rerouting of J26 airway via the BHZ beacon towards ENVUK.
Civil aircraft entering these zones now require clearance from Visakhapatnam air traffic control. During Bhogapuram's non-operational hours, airspace management will shift to either the Kolkata or Chennai area control centers based on relevant Flight Information Region guidelines.
Vital Changes1. **New ATS Routes:** Introduction of V40, V50, V63, W32, and W89
2. **Airway Rerouting:** J26 airway rerouted to bypass naval zones
3. **Exclusive Naval Operation Zones:** Replacing previously withdrawn temporarily reserved areas
