The bustling Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, India, is no stranger to the vibrant tapestry of human experiences that travel weaves. However, if you’re travelling to and from Delhi on the 15th of August, non-scheduled flights will face some restrictions.
Unscheduled Flights Will Face Restrictions At The Delhi Airport
On August 15, certain times in the morning and evening would prohibit non-scheduled flights from arriving or departing from the Delhi airport. The flow of scheduled aircraft at Delhi Airport, the largest airport in the nation, would not be impacted on Independence Day.
According to The Telegraph, on August 15 from 6 am to 10 am and from 4 pm to 7 pm, neither landing nor takeoff will be allowed for chartered aircraft or non-scheduled flights of scheduled carriers. In this regard, the Aeronautical Information Services (AIS), which is a part of the Airports Authority of India (AAI), has issued a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen).
The Indian Air Force (IAF), Border Security Force (BSF), and Army Aviation helicopter missions will not be subject to NOTAM. The governor or chief minister of a state may fly in state-owned helicopters and aeroplanes. Flights carrying out short response time missions and casualty/immediate medical evacuation will also be permitted at the Delhi Airport.
A NOTAM is often a notice that includes information that is crucial for those working in flight operations.
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Which Are Unscheduled Flights?
With its modern infrastructure and strategic location, Delhi Airport witnesses a substantial number of scheduled and unscheduled flights each day. Unscheduled flights are charter or non-scheduled flights. They play a unique role in the aviation landscape of Delhi. There’s flexibility and convenience involved for passengers and operators alike. These flights could be business travel, medical emergencies, leisure trips, diplomatic missions, cargo transport, and more.
Moreover, coordinating flight slots, securing landing and parking permissions and adhering to air traffic control regulations are all aspects that operators of unscheduled flights must navigate
However, Delhi’s airspace can become congested due to the high volume of scheduled flights. Unscheduled flights add an extra layer of complexity to air traffic management. The challenges related to airspace congestion, infrastructure, and regulations persist.
So, are you flying anywhere from Delhi airport on the 15th of August?
Cover image credits: canva