How Will Delhi Airport's Runway Closure Affect Scheduled Flights?
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Synopsis
In June, Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport will temporarily close one of its main runways for critical upgrades. Union Minister K. Rammohan Naidu assures that efforts are underway to minimize disruption to flights. With nearly 50 cancellations expected, find out how this will impact air travel during the busy summer months.
Key Takeaways
- Runway 28/10 is closing for upgrades from mid-June to mid-September.
- 50 daily flights are expected to be canceled.
- Efforts are being made to minimize disruptions for travelers.
- Upgrades involve enhancing the Instrument Landing System.
- Revised flight schedules will be provided in advance.
New Delhi, May 23 (NationPress) As airport officials gear up to temporarily close one of the runways at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in June, Union Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu stated on Friday that talks are ongoing with crucial stakeholders to ensure minimal disruption to scheduled flights.
The runway 28/10 is set to be closed from mid-June to mid-September to allow for the enhancement of the Instrument Landing System (ILS) to CAT III B standards—an essential upgrade for one of the airport's main runways.
This technology allows aircraft to land safely during low visibility conditions, which are particularly frequent during Delhi's thick winter fog.
During the curtain-raiser event for the aviation conference 'Wings India 2026,' scheduled for January in Hyderabad, Union Minister Naidu remarked that the ministry is collaborating with stakeholders, including airlines, to ensure minimal impact on scheduled flights during the runway's closure.
The Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) consists of four runways—RW 09/27, RW 11R/29L, RW 11L/29R, and RW 28/10—and operates two terminals—T1 and T3.
Currently, the T2 terminal is closed for maintenance.
The prior attempt to close the runway in April was abandoned after just four weeks, leading to chaos in flight schedules.
With only three of its runways operational, the airport struggled to handle its usual daily traffic of about 1,400 flights.
Reports indicate that due to the runway closure, nearly 50 daily flights will be cancelled, while another 50 will be rescheduled to off-peak hours.
Airport authorities are hopeful that resuming work during the June–September window will facilitate smoother operations.
The Civil Aviation Ministry also intends to issue revised flight schedules well in advance to assist passengers in avoiding last-minute disruptions during the runway maintenance at Delhi airport.
Point of View
The temporary closure of a runway at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport highlights the need for infrastructure upgrades to ensure safe air travel. While the immediate impact on flight schedules is concerning, proactive communication and planning by the Civil Aviation Ministry are crucial in minimizing disruptions for passengers. This reflects a commitment to both safety and operational efficiency.
NationPress
09/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the runway at Delhi airport be closed?
The runway 28/10 at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport is scheduled to be closed from mid-June until mid-September.
How many flights will be canceled due to the closure?
Reports indicate that nearly 50 daily flights will be canceled as a result of the runway closure.
What upgrades are being made to the runway?
The runway will undergo upgrades to the Instrument Landing System (ILS) to CAT III B standards, enhancing safety during low visibility conditions.
What measures are being taken to minimize flight disruptions?
The Civil Aviation Ministry is engaging with airlines and stakeholders to devise strategies that will limit the impact on scheduled flights.
Are there any changes to flight schedules during this period?
Yes, the ministry plans to release revised flight schedules ahead of time to help passengers avoid last-minute disruptions.
