In the middle of Arctic Polar Circle, there is a European airport that operates regularly during the winter, even with negative temperatures and intense snow. It is one of the northernmost European Union and receives more and more passengers interested in meeting the Finnish Laponia.
Despite the demanding weather conditions, operations take place with normality, resorting to specific strategies and advanced equipment to ensure the safety of landings and detachments.
Large machines ensure cleaning
The track is maintained by a specialized fleet, equipped with large machines. Euronews refers to these vehicles as “monsters” given their size and power, capable of operating in intense snow conditions.
One of the most used models is the PSB 5500 VAMMAS, with 31 tons and 25 meters long. In just 11 minutes, it can clean 5.5 meters of track through a system that includes plowing, broom and snow blower.
Cleaning strategy adapted to meteorology
The maintenance strategy provides for snow to be accumulated until flights arrived as protection against cold rain. The track is then clean at the right time, avoiding excessive use of chemicals.
This method, called “Precision Management Maintenance”, allows greater efficiency and less environmental impact, ensuring a safe track even on continuous snow days.
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Sustainable and automated operations
The bet on sustainability is a priority. The airport was able to reduce 98% of emissions using renewable energy and biofuels for track cleaning equipment, says Euronews.
Tests with autonomous tractors are being developed in collaboration with several Finnish companies. The goal is to ensure automatic operations during night or less activity.
Extreme conditions require versatile teams
Temperatures reach the negative 50 degrees and snow remains on the ground for about seven months a year. Still, the number of flights canceled or late at this airport is minimal.
During the winter, the number of people in the service doubles. Many of the workers accumulate functions and can, on the same day, check passengers and operate snowfall. In summer, the number of workers decreases, only working 25 people, according to.
An operational efficiency model
Sensors embedded on the track monitor soil conditions and allow us to predict meteorological changes several hours in advance. This technology contributes to quick and effective decisions.
Despite operating with a small number of people, this European airport is a reference among world airports. Adopted technical solutions help maintain operational clues even under the most demanding conditions.
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