If you've spotted a yellow SUV zipping along an airport taxiway or runway, chances are it was a friction test vehicle. These cars play a crucial role in maintaining runway safety. Now, Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru has made history by being the first airport in India to use a locally made friction tester, which is based on the Citroen C5 Aircross SUV.

Until now, Indian airports primarily depended on imported friction testers. For instance, Cochin International Airport uses a Volvo V90, and in the past, Saab 9-5 wagons were commonly seen for this task. With Bengaluru's recent development, this marks a notable shift in the industry.

Citroen C5 Aircross: Upgrades made for the task at hand

The revamped Citroen C5 Aircross stands out from the crowd of typical SUVs. It's equipped with specialized tools designed to assess grip levels on the runway. One of its unique features is a deployable wheel, similar to those found in aircraft, which helps gauge traction. During wet condition tests, a nozzle system releases a precise 1mm of water onto the runway, drawing from a 700-litre water tank onboard. This setup mimics the conditions of a rainy landing.

Additionally, the SUV is fitted with various electronic devices and screens, plus a temperature sensor to monitor the heat of the runway. The spacious interior of the C5 ensures that all this equipment can be housed effectively without compromising its functionality.

The importance of runway friction testing

Friction tests play a vital role in maintaining flight safety. If a runway is too slick, especially when it's wet, it can result in loss of control or extended braking distances. These tests are conducted at speeds of 65 km/h and 95 km/h, providing information on runway traction, which is classified into three levels: Good, Medium/Fair, and Poor.

Generally, a friction value of 0.5 or higher is considered safe. Values below that can trigger warnings via NOTAMs (Notice to Airmen) and may lead to necessary actions like cleaning or rubber removal.

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