Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), a GMR Aero-led consortium that manages and operates Indira Gandhi International Airport, has announced the rehabilitation of Runway 11R/29L – commonly known as the third runway. The project aims to strengthen infrastructure, improve airside efficiency, and enhance overall safety and operational reliability.
Commissioned in 2008, the runway has been in continuous service for 17 years, supporting one of Asia’s busiest aviation hubs. The rehabilitation programme includes complete resurfacing, pavement strengthening, and the installation of a new Instrument Landing System (ILS). It will also involve the construction of a new Rapid Exit Taxiway (RET Z1) designed to improve aircraft movement efficiency and reduce runway occupancy time.
The rehabilitation work is scheduled to begin on 16 February 2026, following all requisite regulatory approvals. The runway is expected to be recommissioned in early July, subject to approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
DIAL has undertaken multiple consultations with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and other key stakeholders to assess operational impact and ensure smooth continuity of services. The airport’s scheduled movement capacity will remain at 1,514 movements per day during the rehabilitation period. Airlines and Air Traffic Control (ATC) have been fully briefed, with coordinated contingency plans in place.
Videh Kumar Jaipuriar, CEO, DIAL, said, “The rehabilitation of Runway 11R/29L is a crucial infrastructure project to ensure long-term operational safety, efficiency, and compliance with global aviation standards. We are committed to delivering the project on time, with minimal disruption to airport operations, and in full coordination with all stakeholders.”
Key project works include milling and resurfacing, laying of Dense Bituminous Macadam and Bituminous Concrete, removal and reinstallation of approximately 2,000 Airfield Ground Lighting (AGL) fixtures, and civil upgrades across 500,000 square metres. The project also includes the replacement of windsock systems, rigid pavement upgrades across 39,000 metres, and installation of new pavement markings.
The upgraded ILS will undergo calibration, validation, and operationalisation in compliance with the Aeronautical Information Regulation and Control (AIRAC) cycle, further improving precision and safety during low-visibility operations.
