Starting from July 13, the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) in Delhi will become even more efficient with the operationalization of the dual elevated Eastern Cross Taxiways (ECT) and the fourth runway. The announcement was made by I Prabhakara Rao, the Deputy Managing Director of the GMR Group, on Friday.
Currently, IGIA has three runways, but the addition of a fourth runway and the implementation of the ECT will further enhance the airport’s capabilities. The ECT, which is the first of its kind in India, is 2.1 kilometers long and around 202 meters wide. It will connect the Northern and Southern airfields, reducing the taxi distance for an aircraft by 7 kilometers.
One of the major advantages of the ECT is the reduction in travel distance for aircraft landing on the third runway and heading towards Terminal 1. Currently, these aircraft have to cover a distance of 9 kilometers, but with the ECT, this distance will be significantly reduced to just 2 kilometers. This means that passengers will spend less time on the tarmac before and after their flights, improving overall efficiency.
Furthermore, the ECT will also have a positive impact on the environment by reducing annual CO2 emissions by approximately 55,000 tonnes. These taxiways are capable of handling large planes, including the A-380 and B-777, making IGIA even more accommodating for international flights.
The IGIA is operated by Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL), which is led by GMR Airports Infrastructure Ltd. The addition of the fourth runway and the ECT is a testament to the commitment of DIAL and GMR Group to improve the airport’s infrastructure and ensure a seamless travel experience for passengers.
With the operationalization of the ECT and the fourth runway, IGIA will further solidify its position as a leading international airport. The reduced taxi distances and improved efficiency will benefit both passengers and airlines alike. The airport’s capacity to handle more flights and the reduction in CO2 emissions demonstrate the commitment to sustainable growth.
The ECT and fourth runway at IGIA mark a significant milestone for the aviation industry in India. As the country continues to witness rapid growth in air travel, the development of world-class infrastructure is crucial. The addition of these facilities will not only improve the travel experience for passengers but also contribute to the economic growth of the national capital region.
Overall, the operationalization of the dual elevated Eastern Cross Taxiways and the fourth runway at IGIA on July 13 is a significant achievement for the airport and the aviation industry in India. The improved infrastructure, reduced taxi distances, and reduced CO2 emissions will contribute to a more efficient and sustainable travel experience. The commitment to enhancing the airport’s capabilities reflects the continuous efforts to position IGIA as a leading international hub.
