New Delhi: The United Sates on Wednesday requesting the India for establishing “restricted operating zo-nes” in the airspace over the national capital and “no-fly zone” over the ITC Maurya Hotel from January 24 to 28 and the Taj Mahal on January 27 for President Barack Obama’s visit.
The US Government has requested India to issue a notice to airmen, to inform stakeholders about flight restrictions.
Sources said that America’s security agencies also wants restrictions on the operations of gliders and parachutes 30 nautical miles from the airspace over areas which President Obama is scheduled to visit. It is also in favour of restrictions about 10 nautical miles from the US President’s aircraft and only wants military aircraft or aircraft for medical emergencies to operate in the vicinity if needed.
Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) —which detects incoming missiles and aircraft from a a very large distance — are also likely to be deployed on the Republic Day during the parade where Mr Obama will be the chief guest.
There could be changes made in the flight corridors available to civilian aircraft and the altitude at which flights operate could also be raised.
Meanwhile, defence minister Manohar Parrikar said “extra precaution” is being taken at the borders ahead of US President Obama’s visit not just as a security measure for him but also to prevent incidents which might be undertaken to divert attention.
Mr Parrikar also said that expansion of the defence trade and technology initiative with the US can be expected during the high-profile visit.
“From our side, we have made all the arrangements...The borders are well protected,” Mr Parrikar said.
