2 weeks Ago
Runway 10/28 is currently non-compliant for CAT III operations, which are essential during low-visibility conditions like fog. Delhi Airport’s operator, DIAL (Delhi International Airport Ltd), has temporarily paused upgrade works on Runway 10/28 in an effort to reduce air traffic congestion and limit flight delays. The runway will be back in use in the first week of May, with the remaining maintenance postponed by about a month, as per Money Control.
The decision comes after a rise in flight delays caused by a drop in arrival capacity, following the closure of the runway and changes in wind direction. Runway 10/28 is currently non-compliant for CAT III operations, which are essential during low-visibility conditions like fog. According to a senior Air Traffic Controller, the runway’s closure has brought down the arrival rate from 45 aircraft per hour to 31-32.
Delhi Airport currently has four runways: RW 09/27, RW 11R/29L, RW 11L/29R, and RW 10/28. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), DIAL said the Instrument Landing System (ILS) upgrade – critical for safe landings during foggy winters – has been temporarily put on hold in coordination with various stakeholders. “Runway 10/28 will be brought back into operation in the first week of May, with the remaining upgrade activities deferred for a month or so," the statement read.
DIAL CEO Videh Kumar Jaipuriar confirmed that all works on Runway 10/28 are expected to be completed by September, well ahead of the winter fog season. Over the past few days, the airport has used Air Traffic Flow Management (ATFM) to manage take-offs and landings better. According to a senior Air Traffic Controller, these steps are meant to reduce waiting time before landing and to keep things running smoothly.
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