Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) is preparing for a significant operational change as it plans to shut down Runway 28/10 for 90 days starting June 15.
This closure is intended for the completion of the Instrument Landing System (ILS) upgrade to CAT III B standards, enhancing the runway’s capability to handle landings during low-visibility conditions common in Delhi’s foggy winters. The decision follows a previous attempt in April to carry out the upgrade, which was aborted within four weeks due to flight schedule disruptions. The airport, operating with three runways instead of four, struggled to manage its typical load of approximately 1,400 flights daily, leading to significant delays and passenger inconvenience.
To avoid a repeat of April’s chaos, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has proactively engaged with stakeholders, including airlines, the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), and Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL). Airlines have been instructed to plan flight cancellations in advance and propose measures to minimize passenger inconvenience during the upcoming closure. The ILS upgrade involves extending the runway’s lighting system from 650 to 900 meters, a critical enhancement for safe landings in low-visibility conditions. The AAI will continue its work on installing the ILS components, including the localizer and glide slope antennas, during the closure period.
This planned shutdown comes at a time when Delhi’s airport operations are already under strain due to increased air traffic and recent disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions affecting airspace routes. The closure is scheduled during a relatively lean travel period to mitigate the impact on passengers. Passengers are advised to stay informed about flight schedules and plan their travel accordingly. The airport authorities and airlines are expected to provide regular updates and support to ensure a smooth transition during the runway’s upgrade period.
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