New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) recently conducted operations on an Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) airstrip situated on National Highway 16 near Addanki in Bapatla district. Its aim is to strengthen national security and disaster response capabilities.
On March 18, 2024, Su30 and Hawk fighter jets performed overshoots, while An-32 and Dornier transport planes landed and took off from the facility without any issues.
The activation showcased teamwork between stakeholders like National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), district administration, state police, and the IAF. It demonstrated their ability to do difficult tasks accurately and effectively.
NHAI constructed a 4.1 km long and 33 m wide concrete airstrip following IAF requirements. It’s meant for emergencies and located in Andhra Pradesh. This ELF joins others nationwide, helping with air operations flexibility during crises, especially in far-off areas.
Such emergency landing facility highway airstrips play a vital role in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations, offering critical support in challenging terrains.
Looking forward, the IAF, in collaboration with the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), plans to establish ELFs at strategic locations nationwide.
