Delhi Airport to Close Major Runway for Four-Month Upgrade: What to Expect

The Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) in Delhi is preparing for a significant infrastructure project. The airport plans to close its third runway, Runway 11R/29L, for at least four months starting in mid-February. This essential closure is scheduled to last until June 2026.

Essential Infrastructure Upgrades

The closure is necessary for a comprehensive set of infrastructure upgrades. The work includes complete resurfacing of the runway. It also involves replacing and upgrading the Instrument Landing System (ILS) at both ends of the runway.

• The project will also bring a new Rapid Exit Taxiway (RET).
• Upgrades to the drainage system at the Runway End Safety Area (RESA) are also planned.

These upgrades are critical for future operational efficiency. They aim to improve safety and allow for smoother operations, especially during the winter fog season.

Operational Impact and Mitigation

IGIA is India’s busiest airport, currently handling approximately 1,550 flight movements daily when all four runways are operational.

The airport operator, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), has planned the closure in close coordination with the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Air Traffic Control (ATC).

Minimizing Passenger Inconvenience

Authorities have taken steps to avoid the significant delays seen during a previous runway closure in 2025.

The Civil Aviation Minister's office has reportedly directed that the upgrade timelines must be met. The goal is to ensure minimal disruptions and inconvenience for passengers. The ATC has been asked to maintain operational efficiency throughout the four-month period.

Reconfiguring Remaining Runways

Delhi Airport has four active runways. With 11R/29L closed, the remaining three runways will be reconfigured.

• The newest runway, 29R/11L, will operate in a mixed mode for both arrivals and departures.
• Runway 28/10, which underwent its own upgrade in 2025, will be dedicated to departures.
• Runway 27/09 will be used exclusively for arrivals.

This operational plan is expected to maintain the airport’s capacity. Officials anticipate the airport will handle around 1,515 aircraft movements daily during the closure. This represents a very small reduction from the normal daily movements.

Timing and Industry Concerns

The February-to-June timeline was chosen to avoid the peak fog season. However, the closure will overlap with the busy summer travel rush.

Industry veterans have voiced concerns over the timing. They note it may coincide with existing Flight Duty Time Limit (FDTL) issues. This could potentially result in some slot changes for airlines like IndiGo and Air India.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) will closely monitor the process. Monthly performance reviews will be conducted to ensure airlines adhere to the decided hourly aircraft movements. The successful completion of this project is vital. It will secure IGIA's long-term capability to manage high-volume traffic efficiently.

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