ICG nod for air wing at Thiruvananthapuram airport

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has given the approval to set up its air wing at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport. The move aims to ensure immediate assistance in rescue operations during mishaps in the sea off Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram coasts. 
 

The new air wing would be set up at the old domestic terminal at the airport. A Chetak helicopter and Dornier aircraft would be stationed in the air wing. Airports Authority of India (AAI) had given its nod for the air wing earlier, but the approval of ICG was long pending. 
 

After giving approval, ICG also started to initiate steps to acquire about 1000 square feet space. The Coast Guard is also planning to acquire more land adjacent to the airport to set up facilities including a hangar. New air wing would be attached to Vizhinjam ICG station as it will help to gain jurisdiction over Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram coast. 
 

Tourist activities and high fishing activities in areas like Varkala and Kovalam necessitates the presence of an air wing at Thiruvananthapuram. At present, in the case of any mishap assistance of ICG air wing at Kochi is being sought. Thiruvananthapuram is expecting an International sea port in the near future and this also necessitates the need for enhanced coastal security. 

• Indian Coast Guard
• air wing
• Thiruvananthapuram airport
• ICG
• Coastal security
• International sea port