The Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has achieved a significant milestone with the successful completion of the re-carpeting and refurbishment of Runway 10/28 (RWY 10/28), also known as the second runway, at the Indira Gandhi International Airport.
Following the completion of the project, the runway has been handed over to Air Traffic Control (ATC) for commercial operations starting February 3, 2024. This development now brings the total number of operational runways at Delhi Airport to four, catering to the increasing air traffic demands.
CAT III enabled Runway 10/28 at Delhi Airport
Minister of Civil Aviation, Jyotiraditya Scindia, took to social media platform X to confirm the operationalisation of CAT III enabled Runway 10/28 at Delhi Airport. The re-carpeting and refurbishment project, which spanned over several months, commenced in September 2023 immediately after the conclusion of the historic G20 Summit.
The runway, measuring 3,813 meters in length and 45 meters in width, underwent comprehensive rehabilitation works, including the induction of additional taxiways to improve passenger experience and enhance operational efficiency.
Delhi Airport enhances operational capacity
With the completion of the refurbishment, Delhi Airport is now poised to handle operations at its full capacity, further solidifying its position as one of the busiest airports in the country. The enhanced infrastructure will not only increase the passenger handling capacity of its three terminals to 100 million passengers per annum (MPPA) but will also bolster the airside capacity to handle up to 140 MPPA.
The re-carpeting works involved meticulous milling of the entire length of the runway, followed by overlaying with Polymer Modified Bitumen (PMB). PMB, a blend of bitumen and polymer materials, enhances the mechanical properties of the bitumen, making it capable of withstanding heavy-duty traffic and extreme weather conditions. This technological advancement ensures the longevity and durability of the refurbished runway, providing a safe and efficient operational environment for aircraft movements.
The completion of the Runway 10/28 refurbishment project underscores DIAL’s commitment to continuous improvement and modernization of airport infrastructure. With the addition of another operational runway, Delhi Airport is well-positioned to cater to the growing aviation needs, offering passengers a seamless travel experience and airlines optimal operational efficiency.