From the the event logs of the accident, no mention was make whether the duty air traffic controller had SQ 006 in sight when he/she issued the takeoff clearance.
Taking into consideration a distance of close to 1 nm from the Air Traffic Tower to the threshold of 05R ,with prevaling visibilty of 400-450 meters (my assumption , actual vis believe was lesser at the time). It was doubtful that the duty air traffic controller had visual contact with SQ 006 as it approched 05R.
Isn't it a requirement for ATC to ascertain aircraft requesting for takeoff clearance is on the correct platformm prior to issue of takeoff clearance??
Especially so on a non- ASD airport under inclement weather , It should have been mandatory for ATC to visually confirmed aircraft is lineup on the correct runway prior to issuing takeoff clearance under such circumstances.
This could be the reason for the Singaporean MOT raising the issue under Safety Recommendation to ASC :
"4.CKS Airport should ensure that its Air Traffic Controllers adhere to their Standard Operating Procedures. In particular, when aircraft cannot be seen from the control tower, controllers should advise pilots of this situation, and that they should taxi with caution. "
Infering that the tower controller violated its standing SOPs in takeoff clearance under adverse weather.... not having visual contact with SQ006.
If that is so then it leads to another question , is the airport takeoff minimum comensurate with its controllers' ability in visually acquiring aircraft on the operating platform of the non-ASD airport??? eek:
Are all takeoff clearances in CKS " blind " clearances from the Tower under adverse weather when visibility falls below 600 meters !!!??
Your comments will be most appreciated.
Cheers!
Hawkeye: