Delhi IGI Airport Closes Major Runway 11R/29L for Four-Month Upgrade
Key Points
- 1Runway 11R/29L at Delhi IGI Airport closes February 16, 2026, for a four-to-five-month infrastructure upgrade, with recommissioning expected in early July, subject to DGCA approval.
- 2The project includes essential strengthening of the 17-year-old runway, installation of a new Instrument Landing System (ILS), and construction of a new Rapid Exit Taxiway (RET Z1).
- 3Despite the closure overlapping with the peak summer travel season, DIAL plans to maintain the airport's scheduled movement capacity at 1,514 movements per day.
- 4DIAL, in coordination with AAI and other stakeholders, has put operational plans in place to ensure smooth continuity of services, limiting cancellations to a reported six flights per day.
Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, one of the world’s busiest, is embarking on a major infrastructure project. The airport operator, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), announced the closure of its third runway, Runway 11R/29L.
The closure begins on February 16, 2026. It is scheduled to last for at least four months. The goal is to position IGI among the top three international airports globally. The runway is expected to be recommissioned in early July, pending approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Scope of the Infrastructure Upgrade
The Runway 11R/29L infrastructure upgrade is essential. The runway has been in continuous service for 17 years since 2008. Increased traffic and operational intensity necessitate comprehensive rehabilitation.
The project involves extensive strengthening and modernization work. Key components include complete resurfacing of the runway pavement.
- New Navigation Systems: A new Instrument Landing System (ILS) will be installed. This system provides vital guidance for pilots. Its operationalisation must comply with the AIRAC cycle.
- Airfield Lighting: Removal and reinstallation of approximately 2,000 Airfield Ground Lighting (AGL) fixtures will occur. This ensures better visual guidance, especially in low visibility.
- Airside Efficiency: Construction of a new Rapid Exit Taxiway (RET Z1) is planned. This new taxiway will enhance airside efficiency. It helps reduce runway occupancy time (ROT) for arriving aircraft.
Operational Impact and Industry Concerns
The timing of the closure raises concerns among industry veterans. The February-June window overlaps with the tail end of Delhi’s fog season. More significantly, it coincides with the peak summer travel season (April-June). Passengers may face flight delays and schedule changes.
Previous runway closure attempts exposed coordination gaps. During a 2025 closure of runway 28/10, the airport handled about 200 fewer flights daily. Operations dropped from over 1,200 to around 1,000 flights.
Mitigation and Capacity Management
DIAL has adopted a more rigorous planning process this time. The operator held multiple high-level consultations. Stakeholders included the Airports Authority of India (AAI), airlines, and Air Traffic Control (ATC).
DIAL states that operational plans are in place. The airport’s scheduled movement capacity will be maintained. The daily capacity is set at 1,514 movements per day. This is only a marginal decrease from the average of 1,520 flights daily. Officials reported that only six flights per day would be cancelled. This minimal impact is due to the advanced planning and coordination.
DIAL CEO Videh Kumar Jaipuriar emphasized the project’s importance. “The rehabilitation of Runway 11R/29L is a crucial infrastructure project to ensure long-term operational safety, efficiency, and compliance with global aviation standards,” he stated. He added that DIAL is committed to minimal disruption. The project reflects DIAL’s commitment to continuous improvement. It prepares IGI Airport to handle future aviation growth responsibly.
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Written by
Ujjwal SukhwaniAviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience.
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