Doha: The Qatar Meteorology Department (QMD) is leveraging Vaisala technology to ensure Hamad International Airport (HIA) is using the most advanced weather observation systems possible to ensure high levels of runway visibility and availability in addition to expanding airport safety, efficiency, and capacity.
Working with Vaisala and local integration partner Bayanat Engineering Qatar, QMD chose a suite of Vaisala systems and sensors designed to ensure HIA continues to provide safe and efficient operations — at full capacity in all weather conditions.
One of the key systems in use for maximizing capacity while ensuring operational safety is the use of Vaisala's AviMet ICAO Compliant Runway Visual Range System (RVR) integrated with Vaisala AviMet AWOS system.
The Vaisala AviMet Automated Weather Observing System AWOS provides continuous, real-time weather reports for pilots, airport operators and managers and is fully configurable to cover all of HIA’s airport needs. The system is a smart long-term choice for QMD, as it is designed to grow with the needs of the airport.
The fully automated Vaisala AviMet ICAO Compliant Runway Visual Range System (RVR) assessment and reporting system uses Vaisala instrumentation specifically designed for aviation purposes. It provides high data availability, low maintenance, and accurate information in demanding visibility conditions to maximize airport safety and availability.
As part of their RVR system, QMD leverages the power of the industry’s most accurate runway visibility data from the Vaisala Transmissometer LT31 to provide automatic, uninterrupted, correct visibility data. Accurate and reliable, the transmissometer helps ensure WMO and ICAO compliant determination of RVR to maximize operational capacity while ensuring safety.
As a result of the successful AviMet RVR and AWOS system installations and thanks to the impeccable reputation of Vaisala and Bayanat Engineering in the Gulf region, QMD is also implementing the Forward Scatter FD70, which will be used as a secondary sensor.
Abdulla Mohammed Al-Mannai Director of Qatar Meteorology Department & PR of State of Qatar, said: “Qatar Civil Aviation Authority always keeps its systems up to date with the latest technology on the market. We have been working with Vaisala for the past 30 years and it has been benefcial for both parties. As for Bayanat Engineering Qatar, we have been working with them since 2000, in which they have a proven track record with the benefcial systems for Qatar Meteorology Department.
"The AWOS upgraded state-of-the-art system is an added value for QMD, as QMD always chooses the best for the State of Qatar. Qatar Meteorology Department, supported by Qatar Civil Aviation Authority, consistently chooses the best. As Vaisala is the leading supplier for airport meteorological and weather systems, QMD considers them for reliable and accurate data with effcient integration by Bayanat Engineering Qatar.”
Hassan Ezzeddine, General Manager at Bayanat Engineering Qatar, said: “Working with advanced technology and our trusted partner- Vaisala on delivery of the best solution for Qatar Civil Aviation Authority is a great opportunity for Bayanat Engineering Qatar to yet again show the professionalism and timely execution of the project. We believe in trust and for over 30 years of our presence in the market we established ourselves as the trusted company of choice. Our clients, shareholders and partners help us achieving the goals throughout. AWOS system upgrade by Vaisala will give enhanced possibility for Qatar Meteorology Department with the latest systems.”
The Qatar Meteorology Department provides weather forecasting services and helps ensure runway safety for HIA — one of the world’s top airports. HIA is on track to become one of the most efficient and safest airports in operation, especially as Qatar prepares to host the FIFA World Cup in 2022.
QMD has worked with Vaisala for 30 years, and their confidence in Vaisala solutions has been further bolstered by the comprehensive RVR and weather observation solution.
