Breath analyser examination centre introduced in Mumbai

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) is expanding its existing passenger safety measures in compliance with the latest directive given by the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and has introduced breath analyser (BA) examination facilities. 

“Passengers’ safety holds the highest priority and GVK Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL) endeavours to provide passengers with utmost security through thorough checks by experienced in-house medical team for employees working at the airside,” said a spokesperson from MIAL (which manages the airport). “This is a further assurance to the passengers that when they fly via Mumbai, they not only receive world-class amenities but also services that are as per strict guidelines laid down by regulatory bodies.”

The earlier requisite by the DGCA demanded the detection of the consumption of alcohol only among the on-duty pilots and cabin crew through a breath analyser test. With the newest requirement, the examination is now applicable to all employees performing safety-sensitive activities at the airside.

The BA examination at CSMIA will be carried through the existing 24/7 medical centres available at the airport terminals and the three newly added facilities at the airside. 

In alignment with the latest edict by DGCA, any and every person performing safety-sensitive activities at the airside would be subjected to the breath analyser examination which includes personnel from aerodrome operations, aerodrome rescue and fire fighting, ground handling, aircraft maintenance, and ATC.

Initiated by the aviation body, the requirement states that an organisation must use a scientifically valid method such as a random number table or a computer-based random number generator to select the personnel for testing.