Noida airport is set to get a homegrown runway cleaner

Noida: Noida International Airport (NIA) has partnered with Anlon Technology Solutions to deploy India's first indigenously developed Runway Rubber Removal Machine (RRM). The cutting-edge equipment, named Cleanjet RRM, is engineered to enhance runway safety and ensure uninterrupted aircraft operations by efficiently removing rubber deposits and other surface contaminants.

Mounted on an Eicher Pro 6028 chassis, the Cleanjet RRM uses ultra-high-pressure water jets to clean runways without resorting to abrasive chemicals. Unlike traditional methods, the system is eco-friendly and preserves the integrity of the runway surface while providing a skid-free finish, greatly reducing the risk of accidents during take-offs and landings.

Airport officials said the machine is powered by a Bharat Stage-VI compliant diesel engine, ensuring high performance with minimal emissions. It also features an auxiliary CAT C93B engine and a powerful Hammelmann pump, which together enable precise, damage-free cleaning.

Capable of clearing 800 to 1,100 sqm per hour, the Cleanjet RRM comes equipped with 8,000-litre tanks for both clean water and waste, allowing over four hours of uninterrupted operation. Its integrated suction system collects all runoff, rubber debris, paint flakes, oil spills, right at the nozzle, leaving the surface dry and ready for immediate use, with no need for secondary cleanup.

The machine includes an air-conditioned, ergonomically designed cabin with intuitive controls. It is fitted with multiple cameras and a 12-inch live monitoring display and can store operational data for up to 30 days, improving safety audits and accountability.

Built for versatility, the machine can be quickly deployed in emergencies. Its modular design allows the cleaning head to be raised, lowered, or detached without disassembly, making transportation and storage efficient.

As it nears operational readiness, Noida International Airport, spread over 1,334 hectares, is slated to open with one runway and one terminal, handling up to 12 million passengers annually, with plans for phased expansion.