Paro International Airport, located in Bhutan, is renowned for its challenging approach and landing due to its unique topography surrounded by mountains. The approach to runway 15 involves a visually stunning and demanding maneuver to navigate through the Himalayan valleys. Here's a description of the landing procedure for runway 15 at Paro Airport:
1. Approach Phase: As the aircraft approaches Paro Airport, it follows a series of turns to align with the valley that leads to runway 15. The approach path takes the aircraft over picturesque landscapes and mountain peaks.
2. Visual Navigation: Since Paro Airport does not have Instrument Landing System (ILS) due to the terrain, the landing is performed visually. Pilots must rely on their training and experience to ensure a safe descent.
3. Navigating the Valley: The aircraft maneuvers through the narrow valley, surrounded by high peaks on both sides. The valley requires precise navigation to maintain the correct flight path and altitude.
4. Constant Descent: The approach to runway 15 is characterized by a continuous descent with limited go-around options. Pilots must carefully manage the aircraft's descent rate to remain on the desired glide path.
5. Turn on Short Final: As the aircraft nears the runway threshold, a sharp turn to the left after crossing “ Mr. Smith’s House ” is made to align with the runway. This challenging manoeuvre involves flying very close to the terrain while maintaining constant descent and turn to fly over the threshold.
6. Touchdown: After the turn, the aircraft aligns with runway 15 for touchdown. Due to the relatively short runway length, pilots must aim for precise touchdown points to ensure a safe landing.
7. Runway Considerations: Runway 15 at Paro Airport is 7431 feet (2265 meters) in length, which is relatively short for commercial aircraft operations. Therefore, precise control of airspeed and touchdown point is crucial.
8. Terrain Awareness: Throughout the approach and landing, pilots must maintain awareness of the surrounding terrain and quickly respond to any deviations to ensure safe clearance from obstacles.
9. Skilled Piloting: Due to the challenging nature of the approach, landing at Paro Airport requires pilots with specific training and experience. Only qualified and specially certified pilots are allowed to operate into and out of Paro Airport.
The landing at Paro Airport's runway 15 is not only a remarkable feat of aviation skill but also an awe-inspiring experience for passengers and crew alike, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountain ranges.