Third runway returns to service

Delhi Airport's runway 11R/29L will reopen on September 20 after seven months of rehabilitation work that began in February 2026. All required inspections and regulatory approvals have been completed.

Extensive upgrades completed

The rehabilitation included runway resurfacing, a new rapid exit taxiway, upgraded lighting systems, pavement strengthening, and improvements to civil and electrical infrastructure. The work aimed to improve efficiency and reduce aircraft runway occupancy time.

Capacity boost for growing demand

Delhi Airport currently handles 106 million passengers annually and plans to increase capacity to 125 million by 2032. The first phase targets 116 million by April 2030, with July traffic already up 3.7% year-on-year.

Four runways strengthen operations

The reopened runway adds to Delhi Airport's four operational runways, making it India's only airport with this capacity. The fourth runway was commissioned in 2023 as part of the Phase 3A expansion.

Safety and coordination priority

DIAL worked with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, Airports Authority of India, Air Traffic Control, and airlines to complete safety procedures. The upgrades support operations in varying weather conditions.

“The recommissioning of Runway 11R/29L marks an important milestone in Delhi Airport's continued journey towards building future-ready aviation infrastructure.”

GMR's growing airport portfolio

Delhi Airport is operated by Delhi International Airport Ltd, part of a GMR Aero-led consortium. GMR Airports handled more than 121 million passengers across its operations in India and overseas during fiscal year 2026.