Chandigarh – In a significant relief to passengers, the Indian Air Force has revised its plans for the Chandigarh airport closure, deciding to observe only a partial shutdown for runway repairs instead of a complete suspension. This development allows flight operations to continue for limited hours, providing much-needed flexibility to travelers during the maintenance period.
The Chandigarh airport closure decision was modified following a crucial meeting held in Delhi on Friday between officers of the civil aviation ministry and the Indian Air Force. The IAF had earlier planned to suspend all civilian flights to and from the airport during the scheduled maintenance dates, but the revised approach balances operational requirements with passenger convenience.
Two-Phase Operational Schedule
The Chandigarh airport closure will be implemented in two distinct phases with different operational windows. As per the revised NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) issued on Friday, the phased approach provides clarity for airlines and passengers planning their travel during this period.
During the first phase of the Chandigarh airport closure, running from October 26 to November 6, flights will operate between 5 am and 12 noon. The airport will remain shut from noon to 5 am the following day, creating a 17-hour closure window daily for maintenance work.
The second phase of the Chandigarh airport closure will extend from November 7 to November 18. During this period, the operational window expands significantly, with flights permitted between 5 am and 11 pm. The airport will remain suspended only from 11 pm to 5 am, representing a much shorter 6-hour closure window.
Runway Maintenance Requirements
The Chandigarh airport closure has been necessitated by critical runway maintenance work. The revised NOTAM issued by the IAF specifically mentions that the closure is necessary for polymer modified emulsion (PME) work on the runway, which is essential for maintaining safety standards and operational efficiency.
During the Chandigarh airport closure periods, only rotary-wing aircraft (helicopters) will be allowed to operate, and even these operations will be subject to prior clearance from relevant authorities. This restriction ensures that runway repair work can proceed safely without interference from fixed-wing aircraft operations.
Domestic Flight Operations Maintained
Despite the Chandigarh airport closure affecting operational hours, most domestic connectivity will be preserved during the limited operational windows. Flights to and from major cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Chennai, Patna, Jaipur, Bengaluru, and Srinagar will remain operational during Phase 1.
However, the Chandigarh airport closure will significantly impact international connectivity. The two international flights to Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates will remain completely grounded during the first phase from October 26 to November 6.
Advanced Technology Installation
Beyond routine maintenance, the Chandigarh airport closure period will be utilized for installing advanced aviation technology. Airport sources confirmed that an advanced Korean-made CAT-ILS-I (Instrument Landing System) will be installed during the closure period.
This new system is expected to significantly enhance flight operations during low-visibility and foggy conditions prevalent during winter months. The timing of the Chandigarh airport closure strategically precedes the winter fog season, ensuring the new system is operational when most needed.
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Official Confirmation and Updates
Chandigarh International Airport Limited (CHIAL) CEO Ajay Kumar officially confirmed the revised Chandigarh airport closure plan. “A revised NOTAM has been issued for partial runway closure for repair work from October 26 to November 18. A fresh NOTAM will be released later for the full resumption of flight operations,” Kumar stated.
Regarding flight schedules during the Chandigarh airport closure, Kumar indicated that airlines would issue fresh timings soon to accommodate the revised operational windows. This will allow passengers to plan their travel arrangements according to the limited operational hours.
Airlines to Announce New Schedules
With the Chandigarh airport closure now confirmed on a partial basis, airlines operating from the airport are expected to release revised flight schedules shortly. These new timings will need to fit within the restricted operational windows of 5 am to 12 noon during Phase 1 and 5 am to 11 pm during Phase 2.
Passengers with existing bookings during the Chandigarh airport closure period are advised to check with their respective airlines for updated departure and arrival times. Some flights may be rescheduled, while others might require alternative arrangements.
Historical Context of Airport Closures
The upcoming Chandigarh airport closure is not the first time the facility has faced temporary shutdowns. Earlier in May, during armed conflict between India and Pakistan, flight operations from Chandigarh airport were suspended for several days following intelligence that the neighboring country was attempting to target military installations in the region.
Strategic Importance of the Airport
The Chandigarh airport closure affects a crucial aviation hub serving the Tricity region comprising Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula. The airport handles over 10,000 passengers daily, making it an essential connectivity node for the region.
Inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 11, 2015, Chandigarh International Airport has grown significantly in importance for both civilian and military aviation. The facility serves as a shared civil-military airport, necessitating coordination between civilian authorities and the IAF for maintenance activities like the current Chandigarh airport closure.
Passenger Advisory
Travelers planning to use Chandigarh airport between October 26 and November 18 should carefully note the restricted operational hours during the Chandigarh airport closure. Early morning and late evening flights are most likely to be affected, with many services potentially being rescheduled to fit within the permitted windows.
Passengers are strongly advised to verify their flight timings directly with airlines and arrive at the airport well in advance during this period to avoid any last-minute complications arising from the Chandigarh airport closure schedule.
