Archive · 19 Sep 2026
Indira Gandhi Airport’s Third Runway To Begin Operations September 20
Delhi’s main airport is getting a third usable runway.
Delhi International Airport Limited said it will start operating on September 20.
The runway was repaired and upgraded during a project that began in February 2026.
Workers resurfaced the runway and strengthened its pavement.
They also built a new taxiway to help planes leave the runway faster.
New lighting and other electrical and civil improvements were added.
Officials said the work passed inspections and received the required approvals.
The upgrades are expected to help planes move more smoothly and safely, including during different weather conditions.
Delhi International Airport Limited said the third runway will begin operations on September 20.
The runway rehabilitation programme began in February 2026 and has now been completed.
The project included runway resurfacing, pavement strengthening, and a permanent threshold displacement of runway 29L.
A new Rapid Exit Taxiway, identified as RET Z1, was constructed.
Upgraded lighting and other infrastructure are intended to improve safety, efficiency, capacity, and operational reliability.
- Who
- Delhi International Airport Limited announced the runway’s opening.
- What
- The third runway at Indira Gandhi International Airport will begin operations.
- When
- September 20; the rehabilitation project began in February 2026.
- Where
- Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi.
- Why
- To improve operational safety, efficiency, resilience, and long-term airport capacity.
- Operator
- Delhi International Airport Limited
- Airport
- Indira Gandhi International Airport
- Operations begin
- September 20
- Project start
- February 2026
- New taxiway
- Rapid Exit Taxiway RET Z1
- Runway work
- Resurfacing, pavement strengthening, and permanent threshold displacement of runway 29L
- Approvals
- Required inspections, validations, and regulatory clearances have been completed