Delhi Airport’s third runway will reopen on 20 September. Its rehabilitation has been completed.
Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) announced this on 19 September. DIAL is a company of the consortium led by GMR Aero.
The consortium operates and manages Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI Airport). Runway 11R/29L is commonly known as the third runway.
All necessary inspections, validations and regulatory approvals were completed before the runway was reopened. The rehabilitation programme began in February.
Key work carried out on the runway
During the rehabilitation, the runway was strengthened and upgraded. The aim was to improve safety, operations, durability and long-term capacity.
The runway is part of Delhi Airport, one of India’s busiest airports. Following the upgrade, it is now ready for operations.
As part of the project, the runway was resurfaced. The threshold of Runway 29L was permanently displaced.
In addition, a new Rapid Exit Taxiway (RET Z1) was constructed. The airfield ground lighting system was also upgraded.
The runway pavement was strengthened. The associated civil and electrical infrastructure was also improved.
These changes are expected to improve the runway’s capacity and operations. They will enable aircraft movements to be managed more efficiently.
They will also reduce the time aircraft spend on the runway. Operational reliability in different weather conditions will be strengthened as well.
Work carried out in collaboration with several agencies
DIAL worked with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the Airports Authority of India (AAI), Air Traffic Control (ATC), airlines and other stakeholders throughout the project.
The objective was to fulfil all necessary safety, operational and regulatory requirements. After the prescribed procedures were completed, approval was granted to resume runway operations from 20 September.
DIAL CEO says, “This is a significant milestone”
DIAL CEO Pradeep Panicker said, “The recommissioning of Runway 11R/29L is a significant milestone in building future-ready aviation infrastructure for Delhi Airport.”
He said, “The successful completion of this complex rehabilitation programme demonstrates our strong commitment to safety, improved operations and passenger service.”
He added, “The upgraded runway, along with the new rapid-exit taxiway and improved navigation and lighting systems, will enhance Delhi Airport’s capacity and resilience.”
“It will also help meet the country’s growing aviation needs,” he said.
