Delh airport runway closure: IGI airport to shut one runway for 5 months from February 16; what passengers need to know

Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport is set for a major infrastructure upgrade, with one of its runways scheduled to remain closed for nearly five months starting February 16. Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) announced that Runway 11R/29L will undergo resurfacing and technical upgrades as part of a long-term plan to improve safety and operational efficiency.

Despite the closure, airport authorities have assured passengers that flight operations will continue smoothly, with no major disruption expected.

Runway Closure Part of Major Upgrade Plan

The third runway at Delhi airport, commissioned in 2008, will remain closed until early July, subject to approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). DIAL said the decision was taken after assessing the runway’s condition following nearly 17 years of continuous use.


The rehabilitation programme includes:

• Resurfacing of the runway
• Construction of a new rapid exit taxiway
• Installation of a new Instrument Landing System (ILS)

These upgrades aim to improve safety, boost operational resilience, and prepare the airport for future growth.

Flight Operations to Continue Without Disruption

DIAL clarified that the airport’s daily air traffic movement capacity will remain unchanged at 1,514 flights per day during the closure period. Airlines and Air Traffic Control (ATC) have already been briefed, and operational plans have been put in place to ensure smooth functioning.

According to the airport operator, detailed coordination has been carried out with all stakeholders, including the Airports Authority of India (AAI), DGCA, and airline operators, to minimise inconvenience to passengers.

Why the Upgrade Is Necessary

Although the runway has undergone regular maintenance since 2008, including minor repairs in 2017, the growing volume of air traffic and increasing operational load have made comprehensive rehabilitation essential.

DIAL said the strengthening work is necessary to meet global aviation safety standards and ensure the runway can handle rising passenger and aircraft movement in the coming years.

What DIAL Said

Commenting on the development, DIAL CEO Videh Kumar Jaipuriar said the project is crucial for long-term efficiency and safety.

“The rehabilitation of Runway 11R/29L is a critical infrastructure project to ensure operational safety, efficiency, and compliance with global aviation standards. We are committed to completing the work on time with minimal disruption,” he said.

He added that the airport operator is working closely with all concerned agencies to ensure seamless operations during the upgrade period.

When Will the Runway Reopen?

The runway is expected to be recommissioned in early July, subject to regulatory clearance. DIAL said the entire process will be closely monitored to ensure quality standards and timely execution.

For passengers, the airport authority has assured that flight schedules, connectivity, and safety will remain unaffected despite the temporary closure.

Inputs from PTI