Vistara, the leading full-service carrier in India and a joint venture of Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines, has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first airline in the country to implement a robotic solution for cleaning aircraft exteriors. This state-of-the-art mechanized system, known as Aerowash and introduced by AeroTech Support Services Pvt. Ltd., offers increased efficiency, reduced carbon footprint, and improved cost-effectiveness.
Aerowash operates through a user-friendly and wireless remote control, equipped with various safety features and alarm indicators. Its highly efficient micro-fiber brush drum ensures superior cleaning results for the aircraft's exterior surface, utilizing a nearly waterless, dry-wash process.
By embracing this cutting-edge technology, Vistara reaffirms its commitment to adopting innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency while simultaneously reducing its environmental impact. Aircraft exterior cleaning is a critical aspect of maintenance in the aviation industry. Traditionally reliant on manual labor, this process is time-consuming, resource-intensive, and prone to human error. However, the introduction of this mechanized program not only saves time but also promotes sustainability. By reducing the accumulation of dirt, dust, grime, and other debris, it minimizes aerodynamic drag, resulting in enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced fuel consumption.
This innovative approach to meticulous aircraft exterior maintenance safeguards against structural damage prevents corrosion caused by environmental factors and oil/fluid leakages and prolongs the lifespan of the aircraft. Vistara has conducted demo/proof-of-concept activities with AeroWash for some time prior to implementing it.
Pankaj Handa, Senior Vice President – Ground Operations at Vistara, expressed his delight at becoming India's first airline to adopt this groundbreaking initiative. He emphasized Vistara's unwavering commitment to investing in purpose-driven and innovative technologies since its inception. This implementation represents yet another step in their ongoing efforts to enhance operational efficiency through automation while continually seeking improved and more sustainable ways of conducting business.
Dr. Ashwani Khanna, Executive Director of AeroTech Support Services Pvt. Ltd., conveyed his excitement at partnering with Vistara and their role as the first airline in India to embrace this futuristic technology following a comprehensive assessment. This collaboration has the potential to positively impact the entire industry in the years to come.
Vistara has consistently achieved recognition for its excellence in service. It has been rated the highest airline in India by Skytrax and TripAdvisor, winning several 'Best Airline' awards. The airline is well-regarded for its world-class cabin cleanliness and its commitment to maintaining high safety standards. Vistara has recently been featured among the world's top 20 airlines and has received accolades such as 'Best Airline in India and Southern Asia' for two consecutive years, 'Best Airline Staff Service in India and Southern Asia' for four consecutive years, 'Best Cabin Crew in India and Southern Asia' for two consecutive years, and 'Best Business Class in India and Southern Asia' at the prestigious Skytrax World Airline Awards 2022. Vistara was also honored as the 'Best Overall Airline' in Central/Southern Asia at the 2023 Regional Passenger Choice Awards. Furthermore, Vistara has received the Ch-aviation Asia's Third Youngest Airline Fleet award for two consecutive years.