Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has announced that one of its runways at the Indira Gandhi International Airport will remain shut for nearly five months starting February 16, as part of a major resurfacing and upgrade programme.
The third runway, identified as 11R/29L, will be taken out of operation to allow extensive rehabilitation work. Despite the temporary closure, DIAL said the airport will continue to handle its full scheduled air traffic movement capacity of 1,514 flights per day. Airlines and Air Traffic Control have already been briefed, and operational plans have been put in place to ensure uninterrupted services for passengers.
Major upgrade planned after 17 years of operation
According to DIAL, the runway rehabilitation programme is subject to regulatory approvals and will include resurfacing of the runway, construction of a new rapid exit taxiway, and installation of a new Instrument Landing System. The runway was commissioned in 2008 and has been in continuous use for 17 years, with only routine maintenance and a minor rehabilitation carried out in 2017.
With rising air traffic, increased operational load, and natural ageing of infrastructure, DIAL said a comprehensive upgrade has now become essential. The airport operator added that the strengthening work is aimed at improving safety, operational reliability, and readiness for future growth.
The runway is expected to be recommissioned in early July, subject to approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation.
DIAL assures minimal disruption during closure period
“The rehabilitation of Runway 11R/29L is a crucial infrastructure project to ensure long-term operational safety, efficiency, and compliance with global aviation standards,” said DIAL CEO Videh Kumar Jaipuriar.
He added that DIAL is committed to completing the project on schedule while ensuring minimal disruption to airport operations. The airport operator is working closely with the Airports Authority of India, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, airline operators, and other stakeholders.
DIAL also said that before finalising the closure plan, it held multiple high-level consultations with the AAI and other stakeholders to assess potential impact and put mitigation measures in place.