NAV Portugal Unveils MAD Winds: A Game-Changer for Madeira Airport Safety
NAV Portugal has introduced a cutting-edge wind recognition system, MAD Winds, at Madeira Airport. This innovative system combines X-band radar and lidar technology to measure wind speeds and other meteorological data using laser beams. It aims to enhance flight safety and reduce wind-related diversions, which number in the hundreds each year, significantly impacting tourism on the island.
MAD Winds is currently in a one-year pre-operational phase, allowing for careful configuration and adaptation before full integration into operations. The system is based on technologies successfully used at airports in Hong Kong and Palermo. It collects precise long-term meteorological data, which could potentially lead to a review of existing wind limits at Madeira Airport.
Around 80% of wind-related deviations at Madeira Airport are only just above the set limits, according to NAV Portugal. MAD Winds enables detailed analysis of wind conditions during critical phases of approach, landing, and takeoff. It detects dangerous weather phenomena such as gusts, turbulence, and microbursts early on and sends alerts to air traffic control and aircraft crews. This early detection can help prevent diversions and ensure safer operations, even in Madeira Airport's challenging landing conditions, characterized by strong winds, steep cliffs, and a runway built into the sea.
MAD Winds' successful implementation at Madeira Airport could pave the way for similar systems at other airports facing challenging wind conditions. While specific details about other airports using identical systems are not publicly available, many airports worldwide employ wind recognition systems based on similar technologies to enhance safety and efficiency. The precise, long-term data collected by MAD Winds could lead to improved wind limits and better understanding of wind patterns, ultimately benefiting both aviation safety and tourism in Madeira.
