Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Ram Mohan Naidu, recently chaired a high-level meeting at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) to address ongoing operational challenges. These issues stem from the upgradation work on Runway 10/28 and the unexpected shift in wind patterns affecting flight operations.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including Civil Aviation Secretary Shri Vumlunmang Vualnam, Airports Authority of India (AAI) Chairman Shri Vipin Kumar, Director General of Civil Aviation Shri Faiz Ahmed Kidwai, senior officials from Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), representatives of all major airlines, and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).
During the session, Minister Naidu reviewed the prevailing situation and underscored the need to minimize disruptions to passenger movement and airline schedules. He called for holistic planning that factors in both infrastructure upgrades and weather-related contingencies.
He directed all stakeholders to adopt timely, proactive strategies based on real-time weather updates, and to ensure optimal use of available resources.
“I am confident that with strong coordination and collective efforts, Delhi Airport will continue to provide a world-class travel experience—even amidst infrastructure enhancements and unpredictable weather,” Naidu stated.
Delhi Airport Operations: Runway Closure & Weather Woes
The simultaneous closure of Runway 10/28 for upgradation and the impact of easterly wind patterns have significantly reduced arrival capacity at IGIA—India’s busiest airport. On Monday alone, over 450 departing flights faced delays, with an average wait time of 28 minutes, according to Flightradar24.com.
In light of the disruptions, airport operator DIAL announced a temporary halt to the upgradation work on Runway 10/28. The runway, currently undergoing maintenance due to non-compliance with CAT III low-visibility operational standards, will be reopened for flights in the first week of May.
DIAL shared via posts on X that, in consultation with stakeholders, the Instrument Landing System (ILS) upgrade—critical for winter operations—will be paused temporarily. The remaining work is scheduled to resume after a month.
DIAL CEO Videh Kumar Jaipuriar assured that all maintenance and upgrades for Runway 10/28 will be completed by September, well in advance of the fog-heavy winter season.
