Gautam Kumar Mishra, New Delhi: Planes carrying heads of state, foreign delegations, and other high-profile dignitaries continue to land at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport for the BRICS Summit being held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on September 12 and 13. Guests will also depart from the airport once the summit concludes.
In view of these high-profile movements, the Slot Management Plan implemented by airport operator DIAL and Air Traffic Control (ATC) plays a crucial role in ensuring the safe and smooth operation of VVIP aircraft as well as the punctual operation of regular passenger flights.
About The Slot Management Plan
The primary objective of this plan is to reduce runway pressure during both arrival and departure phases while minimising delays to scheduled passenger flights.
Under this special slot plan, dedicated time slots have been predetermined by ATC for the landing and takeoff of VVIP aircraft. Air traffic is managed by creating a precise, minimal time gap during VIP flight operations, utilising the same runways and airspace normally used by commercial flights.
Minimising Delays And Runway Holding Time
This plan prevents scheduled flights from being cancelled at the last minute or placed on hold for extended periods during or after the summit. All airlines have been instructed to strictly adhere to their designated slot, ensuring that runway holding times are not extended and passengers face no inconvenience.
Temporary Airspace Restrictions
To maintain smooth operations, a temporary ban has been imposed on the landing and takeoff of non-scheduled flights and chartered jets within a 300 km radius of Delhi. This restriction allows air traffic controllers to focus entirely on managing the arrival and departure of VIP guests along with regular commercial flights.
Separate Bays, Anti-Drone Systems
To avoid congestion in the apron area, special parking bays have been created for aircraft carrying foreign guests, while nearby airports like Jaipur, Lucknow, and Hindon have been designated as standbys for emergencies and parking management.
Separate bays have been reserved for the aircraft of all heads of state. These planes are guarded by NSG and SWAT teams from the Delhi Police, along with the CISF and foreign security agencies. Anti-drone systems have also been activated around the airport premises to prevent unidentified flying objects.