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This move is to upgrade its Instrument Landing System (ILS) to a higher standard, allowing better landings in foggy conditions.
Delhi airport. (File photo)
The Indian government is getting ready to shut one of Delhi’s four airport runways – Runway 28/10, starting 15 June.
This closure will last for around 90 days. and is necessary to upgrade important landing equipment, as per Hindustan Times.
The decision comes after a failed attempt in April, when a similar upgrade had to be stopped midway due to flight delays and mismanagement. That closure had caused chaos, as the airport was unable to manage around 1,400 daily flights using only three runways.
Why the Runway Needs Work
Runway 28/10 will undergo an upgrade to CAT III B standards, which allows landings even in thick fog, a common issue in Delhi during winter. The lighting system on the runway will also be extended from 650 to 900 metres for better visibility.
Airlines Told to Cancel Flights Early
In a high-level meeting chaired by Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu on Tuesday, airline officials were told to start planning flight cancellations in advance to prevent a repeat of the earlier crisis. The minister also asked airlines to suggest ways to reduce passenger inconvenience during the closure period.
What Went Wrong in April?
In April, the same runway was shut on the 8th for ILS upgrades and lighting extension. However, by 11 April, flight delays became common due to:
- Lack of planning among stakeholders
- Airlines not cutting back on flight schedules
- Thunderstorms adding to the chaos.
Officials chose mid-June as it is expected to be a relatively lean travel period, after the summer holidays. The upgrade, once completed, will help the airport manage low-visibility landings, especially during Delhi’s winter fog.
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