Low Visibility at Bahrain International

The aerodrome is equipped with a Category I ILS. Category I operations require an RVR of at least 550 m and a decision height of not less than 200 ft. The reported RVR at touchdown is 550 m, which is exactly at the Category I minimum, but the reported visibility of 600 m in mist and vertical visibility of 200 ft indicate marginal conditions that may deteriorate. The aerodrome is not approved for low visibility procedures below 550 m RVR, so any further reduction would make the approach non-compliant. The controller should inform the 737 crew of the current RVR and visibility, confirm they are content to continue, and be prepared to instruct a go-around or diversion if the RVR falls below 550 m. The controller should also alert the aerodrome operator and request that the apron be cleared of vehicles and the follow-me car positioned to guide the aircraft on the ground. The A320 holding at 4,000 ft should be advised of the conditions and given holding instructions with an expected further clearance time.

Low visibility procedures should be activated in accordance with the aerodrome manual: the aerodrome operator should be notified, vehicle movement on the manoeuvring area restricted, and the surface movement radar used to monitor traffic. The controller should confirm that the ILS is serviceable and that the RVR readings are being updated. To the A320: advise the current RVR, visibility, and vertical visibility, state that low visibility procedures are in force, and give holding instructions with an expected approach time. The controller should also advise the A320 that the aerodrome is not approved for operations below 550 m RVR, so if conditions deteriorate the aircraft may need to divert. The controller should coordinate with the approach controller and the aerodrome operator, and record the activation time and the conditions in the watch log. If the RVR falls below 550 m, the controller must suspend arrivals and advise the 737 to go around or divert.