Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) in Delhi achieved a remarkable feat as it became India’s first airport equipped with four runways. Jyotiraditya Scindia, the Civil Aviation Minister, inaugurated the airport’s fourth runway, boosting its throughput capacity from approximately 1400-1500 air traffic movements per day to nearly 2000 air traffic movements per day. This expansion will enable the airport to cater to over 109 million passengers annually.
Scindia also alluded to the forthcoming opening of the airport’s new terminal, anticipated for October of this year. The addition of the fourth terminal is expected to further enhance the airport’s ability to handle the growing number of passengers. With the inclusion of the new runway and terminal, Delhi Airport will be well-prepared to meet the rising demand and establish itself as a prominent international hub.
The inauguration of the fourth runway and the introduction of the first eastern cross taxiway (ECT) represent a momentous occasion for the Indian civil aviation sector. The ECT connects the Northern and Southern parts of the airfield, resulting in reduced taxi time for aircraft and ensuring passengers can disembark within a mere 12 minutes of landing. This operational efficiency is projected to reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 55,000 tons annually.
Scindia emphasized the significant role played by the civil aviation sector in India’s economic growth. The expansion of fleet capacity and the increasing number of passengers at metro airports reflect the robustness of the country’s aviation industry. With the airport’s ongoing expansion and improvements, India aspires to establish itself as a major player in the global civil aviation arena.
Scindia extended his congratulations to the GMR Group, the operator of the airport, for their pivotal role in achieving these significant milestones. The introduction of the ECT, coupled with the fourth runway and the forthcoming integrated Terminal 1, positions Delhi Airport as a future-ready international hub. G M Rao, Chairman of the GMR Group, highlighted how these developments enhance operational efficiency and increase capacity at the airport.
The civil aviation minister stressed that alongside growth, India’s aviation sector acknowledges its responsibility towards environmental sustainability. The airport’s modern infrastructure and streamlined operations will contribute to a substantial reduction in carbon emissions, aligning with the country’s commitment to environmental conservation efforts.