As Typhoon Butterfly’s outer circulation extends the plum rain season to 38 days, China Eastern Airlines‘ Zhejiang Branch has implemented comprehensive flood prevention measures to ensure flight safety and operational continuity. The airline has mobilized emergency teams, fortified infrastructure, and conducted realistic drills to combat the dual threats of prolonged rainfall and typhoon conditions.
Triple-Layer Protection System Implemented
The carrier established an integrated defense framework combining human, physical, and technological safeguards. A specialized 20-member rescue team now maintains 24/7 readiness at Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport, supported by strategically positioned flood barriers, drainage pumps, and emergency power supplies. Structural reinforcements including steel wire bracing for exterior units and thorough equipment inspections have been completed to eliminate potential hazards.
Infrastructure Upgrades Prevent Water Damage
Engineers conducted extensive drainage system improvements across 13 flood-prone areas in the airline’s operational zones. The upgrades feature two high-capacity mobile drainage pumps and completely cleared waterways, ensuring rapid water dispersion during heavy downpours. A novel one-hour inspection protocol monitors building exteriors, roof drains, and equipment foundations, with real-time data transmission enabling immediate risk mitigation.
Emergency Drill Simulates Worst-Case Scenarios
The branch conducted realistic flood response exercises simulating red-alert conditions. Teams successfully demonstrated rapid deployment capabilities, completing material preparation and personnel mobilization within strict time limits. Participants executed complex maneuvers including floodwater pumping, emergency power restoration, and sandbag barrier construction, proving operational readiness for actual disasters.
Cross-Department Coordination Strengthened
China Eastern has enhanced collaboration with Ningbo Airport and meteorological agencies to improve weather monitoring and risk assessment. The partnership enables earlier warnings and more accurate predictions, allowing for proactive operational adjustments. Joint contingency plans now cover all potential disruption scenarios from runway flooding to terminal evacuations.
Passenger Protection Remains Top Priority
The airline maintains its commitment to “Three Zero” objectives: eliminating equipment risks, drainage failures, and service interruptions. These measures safeguard both flight operations and passenger comfort during extreme weather, ensuring travel plans proceed with minimal disruption throughout the challenging flood season.
Continuous Improvement for Future Challenges
Following the successful drills, China Eastern plans to expand its emergency response capabilities with advanced monitoring technologies and AI-powered risk prediction systems. The proactive approach sets new standards for airline weather preparedness in China’s flood-prone eastern regions, demonstrating aviation’s resilience against climate challenges.
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