Serbian regulator scolds VINCI over delays

NEWS FLASH

The Serbian Civil Aviation Directorate has undertaken an investigation into delays and flight disruptions that took place at Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport this week following mild snowfall and subzero temperatures. In a statement, the regulator accused operator VINCI of mishandling the situation. "A preliminary analysis of the collected data determined that the operator of Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport did not undertake all the necessary measures that would ensure the regular and efficient flow of air traffic at the airport. The failure to take appropriate measures, primarily regarding de-icing services, led to significant disruptions to the planned flight schedule and frequent delays. The Serbian Civil Aviation Directorate orders the airport operator to implement emergency measures, procedures, and activities in order to eliminate the observed irregularities and enable efficient, regular and reliable air traffic at the airport", the Directorate said. VINCI has frequently been on the receiving end of criticism for its ground handling activities, including frequent delays over the summer when it was ill-prepared for the record volume of traffic. This week saw delays in the dispatch of flights, long queues at check-in, and delays in baggage delivery. Low visibility over the past two days has also played a role in the disruption of flights. Menzies Aviation will take over the handling of Air Serbia flights at Belgrade Airport on February 22, while a number of other carriers have moved onto different providers, including LOT Polish Airlines which recently contracted Goldair Handling.

Commenting on the matter, Belgrade Airport noted, "Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport remains operational for air traffic, unaffected by adverse weather conditions, ensuring smooth operations with minimal delays. The aircraft de-icing process is functioning at full capacity, aligning with the predetermined flight schedules of the airlines. Additionally, thorough clearance of the runway, taxiways, and parking positions has been carried out. The runway is equipped with category IIIb technology, featuring state-of-the-art devices for safe landing and takeoff in conditions of severely reduced visibility, such as fog”. It added, “During winter conditions, various factors may contribute to flight delays. De-icing an aircraft requires a specific amount of time, and delays in incoming flights to Belgrade can cascade into subsequent delays for outgoing flights, leading to extended wait times for de-icing and potential flight delays. The decision of airlines to land or take off in reduced visibility conditions depends not only on the airport's category but also on several other critical factors. These include the aircraft type, adherence to prescribed procedures by airlines, and the pilot's discretion in determining whether it is feasible to land in Belgrade under reduced visibility conditions or opt for diversion to the nearest airport or reconsider the flight altogether".