G20 related pollution curbs delayed repair of the CAT III runway at Delhi airport

January 19, 2024

New Delhi: G20 related pollution curbs delayed repair of the CAT III runway at Delhi airport

Last week, Runway 29L was downgraded from CAT III to CAT I due to construction near the Dwarka Flyover affecting radio communication. AAI and DIAL are collaborating with NHAI to resolve the issue. As of now, there is no infringement, and both RWY 29L and 11R are fully available for CAT III operations.

The last re-carpeting of runway 10/28 was conducted in 2010, and the expected lifespan is approximately 10.12 years under operational and environmental conditions. DIAL planned the re-carpeting after the G-20 Summit, and the work is nearing completion, with continuous monitoring by DGCA.

Regarding pilot deficit, in 2014, there were 2358 qualified CAT II/III pilots. MoCA and DGCA have consistently collaborated with the industry to increase the number of qualified crew annually. The current count stands at 6191 as of December 31, 2023, representing a 165% increase from 2014.

To address passenger distress due to severe fog conditions since January 13, 2024, MoCA has implemented several measures:

i. An SOP has been issued for strict adherence by airlines regarding flight cancellations during adverse weather conditions.
ii. Airlines are required to publish accurate real-time delay information on their websites, through SMS/WhatsApp, email, and display it at airports. Airline staff at airports are sensitized to communicate and guide passengers continuously.
iii. Airlines are advised to cancel flights anticipated to be delayed beyond 3 hours to prevent congestion and passenger inconvenience. Aircraft, in case of diversion or long delays, should be parked on contact stands for passenger disembarkation.
iv. All airlines must activate Emergency Control Rooms (War Rooms) at all six metro airports, manned by top managers authorized to make prompt decisions, monitored by the Ministry daily.
v. MoCA and DGCA continuously monitor flight delays, cancellations, and diversions thrice daily at all six metro airports