Hyderabad: GMR Hyderabad International Airport Limited (GHIAL) announced on February 17, the successful installation and activation of state-of-the-art navigational infrastructure at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA), marking a significant advancement in the airport’s operational capabilities and safety protocols.
The airport has completed the installation and commissioning of a Category II Instrument Landing System (ILS) and its associated runway lighting system on the primary runway. This advanced system, now fully operational, ensures that aircraft can safely land in visibility conditions as low as 300 metres (RVR), greatly improving safety during adverse weather conditions.
The Category II ILS is a substantial upgrade from the existing Category I systems, providing pilots with precise guidance through accurate radio signals and sophisticated ground lighting. This enhanced capability is vital during foggy conditions or when visual references are extremely limited, ensuring secure landings in challenging environments. The newly installed systems are expected to reduce disruptions caused by low visibility, thereby minimising inconvenience for passengers and improving operational safety. These upgrades adhere to the standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and have been certified by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Additionally, GHIAL has received approval from the DGCA to elevate the secondary runway to Category I status. This upgrade will enable the airport to operate with an RVR of 550 metres during contingency situations on the primary runway.
This enhancement underscores the airport’s commitment to retaining its position as a leader in Indian aviation while ensuring reliable service for both domestic and international flights. Rajiv Gandhi International Airport has positioned Hyderabad as a major aviation hub, with ongoing expansion plans to accommodate the rising number of passengers. Passenger traffic at RGIA has witnessed substantial growth, increasing from 8 million in FY2021 to 12.4 million in FY2022, 21 million in FY2023, and an anticipated 25 million in FY2024.
This impressive growth reflects a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 45.6 per cent, driven by Hyderabad’s booming economy and growing disposable incomes. As Hyderabad continues to expand, it is set to become a key hub for international travel, offering significant opportunities for airlines and passengers alike. The city’s strategic infrastructure investments, along with its expanding international connectivity, make it an attractive destination for long-haul flights, further strengthening its position as an important player in the global travel market.
