Amritsar Airport Announces Major Runway Closure for Safety Upgrades
Flight operations at Sri Guru Ram Dass Ji International Airport in Amritsar will be suspended for eight hours daily over nearly six months, starting April 1, as authorities initiate critical runway and safety enhancement projects. This temporary closure is set to impact both domestic and international flights, requiring airlines to adjust their schedules significantly.
Detailed Closure Schedule and Impact on Flights
Airport director Bhupinder confirmed that no flights will operate between 1:45 PM and 9:45 PM until September 27, under a formally notified schedule. This daily suspension will affect all services, with airlines mandated to reschedule flights outside this eight-hour window. Currently, the airport handles 62 flights under the summer schedule, including 40 domestic and 22 international routes. Key destinations served include Delhi, Mumbai, Dubai, Doha, Birmingham, and London.
Bhupinder emphasized that the airport's 3,658-meter-long runway is capable of accommodating Category-E aircraft, such as the Boeing 747-800, which operates on routes to Qatar, Singapore, Birmingham, and Gatwick. All existing flights will be accommodated within the remaining operational time slots to minimize disruption for travelers.
Scope of Upgrade Works and Safety Improvements
The suspension is part of an extensive project involving runway recarpeting, development of the runway-end safety area (RESA), installation of energy-efficient LED airfield ground lighting, and implementation of an advanced individual light control monitoring system (ILCMS). These upgrades are deemed essential for ensuring passenger and aircraft safety, as well as enhancing the long-term operational efficiency of the runway and airfield infrastructure.
Bhupinder stated that these works will bolster the airport's capabilities and align with international safety standards, providing a more reliable and secure environment for future air travel.
Travel Advisory for Passengers
Passengers are strongly advised to check revised flight schedules with their respective airlines and plan their travel accordingly during the closure period. The airport authorities have urged travelers to stay informed about any changes to avoid inconvenience and ensure smooth journeys.
This proactive measure aims to complete the upgrades efficiently while maintaining service quality, with the goal of improving overall airport performance and safety protocols for years to come.
