Can Bengaluru Airport's New ATC Systems Unlock Dual Runway Capacity by Mid-2026?
Key Points
- 1AAI awarded the Rs 120 crore ATC automation system overhaul contract to Indra Sistemas SA.
- 2The project is scheduled for completion by mid-2026, enabling simultaneous landings and take-offs on both runways.
- 3The upgrade includes Advanced Surface Movement Guidance and Control System (ASMGCS) for enhanced ground safety.
- 4Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) handled 41.88 million passengers in FY25, reflecting 11.6% year-on-year growth.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is driving a major technological upgrade at Kempegowda International Airport (BLR). This comprehensive overhaul focuses on the airport’s air navigation infrastructure. The goal is to meet the rapidly increasing operational demands in Bengaluru.
Project Scope and Timeline
The AAI awarded the contract for this significant project to Spanish firm Indra Sistemas SA. The cost of the contract is reported to be Rs 120 crore. The schedule targets completion by mid-2026.
The core of the initiative is a full upgrade of the Air Traffic Control (ATC) automation system. This revamped platform will feature advanced flight data processing. It will also offer improved decision-support tools for controllers. This ensures safe and efficient aircraft handling.
Enabling Dual Runway Efficiency
A primary benefit of the upgrade is maximizing runway utilization. The new system will permit simultaneous landings and take-offs of aircraft. This will happen safely on both the North and South runways. Currently, only the North runway is fully monitored. The upgraded air navigation services (ANS) will track the South runway too.
Safety will also see enormous improvement. The new setup includes an upgraded Advanced Surface Movement Guidance and Control System (ASMGCS). This system allows accurate monitoring of all aircraft and vehicle movements. This includes the apron and all taxiways. This is especially critical during low-visibility conditions. The project also involves installing 33 Multilateration systems and two Surface Management Radars. These tools provide precise aircraft positioning.
Context of Rising Flight Volumes
The need for this overhaul is driven by rising flight volumes India is experiencing. Kempegowda International Airport is the country's third busiest. The airport served 41.88 million passengers in the financial year 2024-25 (FY25). This represents an 11.6% increase from the previous year. International passenger traffic surged by 25%. Carriers like IndiGo are expanding their global networks.
This growth puts significant pressure on existing infrastructure. The current ATC tower is nearing its operational limits. The airport's long-term plan aims to handle 114 million passengers annually. The AAI’s modernization plan aligns with the broader national strategy. This strategy includes a 10-year roadmap for Communication, Navigation, and Surveillance/Air Traffic Management (CNS/ATM). This national effort, supported by partners like Boeing, aims to improve airspace utilization. The goal is maintaining safe and efficient operations across India.
Industry Impact and Opportunities
The successful completion of the Kempegowda International Airport upgrade is vital. It will significantly reduce congestion and delays. Airlines will benefit from more predictable schedules. Passengers will see improved on-time performance. This project showcases India’s commitment to modernizing its India aviation infrastructure. Global bodies like IATA stress the importance of such investments. They are needed to support sustainable air traffic growth. You can read more commercial aviation news on flying.flights.
- The new Bengaluru Airport air traffic systems will enhance safety. They will provide better ground movement control. This is a critical step for a major hub.
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