In a major boost for air connectivity in Maharashtra's scenic Konkan coast, the Sindhudurg Airport has secured a crucial green light from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to operate round-the-clock, including during challenging weather. This landmark approval is set to transform the airport into a more reliable and capable hub for the region.
What the DGCA Approval Entails
The aviation safety regulator has certified the airport for Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), a critical capability that allows aircraft to take off and land in conditions of low visibility and adverse weather. This is not just a procedural update; it's a fundamental upgrade to the airport's operational backbone.
The certification includes the implementation of published satellite-based Required Navigation Performance (RNP) procedures. To ensure redundancy and safety, the airport has also made a backup navigation aid available. This dual-system approach provides pilots with precise instrument guidance and a reliable non-satellite alternative, paving the way for safer landings and more dependable flight schedules throughout the year, regardless of the season.
A Catalyst for Regional Growth and Connectivity
Jai S Sadana, Chief Adviser and Head at IRB Sindhudurg Airport, highlighted the transformative potential of this development. He stated that the approval for 24x7 all-weather operations significantly enhances the airport's reliability. This increased dependability is expected to build greater confidence among airlines, support sustained growth in passenger traffic, and contribute substantially to the economic and tourism development of the wider Konkan region.
The airport, which began commercial operations in October 2021 and is operated by IRB Infrastructure Developers, is already witnessing positive traction. The operator revealed that the facility recorded nearly 11,000 passenger movements in December 2023, marking a significant milestone. To accommodate future growth, the aircraft parking capacity has been doubled from three to six aircraft stands.
Future Prospects and Enhanced Links
The connectivity boost doesn't stop here. Sadana also indicated that the much-anticipated Mumbai-Sindhudurg route under the state's regional connectivity scheme is expected to commence in the coming months. This new route will dramatically improve accessibility, making travel far more convenient for residents of the Konkan region while warmly welcoming tourists from across India.
This series of developments positions Sindhudurg Airport not just as a gateway to a beautiful tourist destination, but as a key infrastructural pillar for year-round economic activity in Maharashtra's coastal belt. The move from a fair-weather facility to a 24/7 all-weather airport marks a new chapter in the region's aviation history.
