Jaipur International Airport has solidified its position as a critical diversion hub for northern India's air traffic, witnessing a significant surge in rerouted flights during the last month of 2024. The airport handled a remarkable 79 flight diversions in December alone, a figure that nearly matches the total of 80 diversions recorded over the entire three-month period from December 2024 to February 2025.
Advanced Infrastructure Drives Diversion Capability
Airport authorities attribute this sharp increase to the facility's modern infrastructure and superior technical support. A key component enabling this reliability is the CAT 3B-enabled navigation system. This advanced technology permits safe aircraft landings even when visibility plummets below 300 metres, effectively managing complete foggy conditions. The airport is further bolstered by sophisticated approach lighting systems and four Runway Visual Range (RVR) machines installed on each side of the runway, providing crucial visibility assistance down to 50 metres during dense fog events.
Wide Network of Diverted Flights
The diversions last month encompassed a broad spectrum of air traffic. Out of the 79 rerouted flights, 70 were domestic and 9 were international. These aircraft were redirected to Jaipur from several major airports across North India, including Delhi, Lucknow, Dehradun, Chandigarh, and Amritsar. An official from Jaipur airport elaborated on the reasons behind this trend, stating that apart from adverse weather, continuous upgrades to airside and operational runway infrastructure have been pivotal. "Technological advancements and trained staff help in better coordination and play a crucial role in streamlining diversion operations," the official explained.
Setting a Benchmark in Regional Aviation
While Jaipur's role has expanded notably, other regional airports like Delhi, Lucknow, and Amritsar have also adopted the CAT 3B system to enhance their operational efficiency during low-visibility scenarios. The data from December underscores Jaipur International Airport's evolving importance in maintaining the resilience and fluidity of India's aviation network, especially during the challenging winter months. Its ability to handle a high volume of unexpected traffic reliably marks it as an indispensable asset for airlines navigating the unpredictable North Indian weather.
