Noida Airport News: CAT III Certification Plan to Reduce Delhi Fog Flight Delays
Noida Airport News
Noida International Airport is working towards getting CAT III certification to improve flight operations during the winter fog season. The certification will allow aircraft to land in extremely low visibility conditions and could help reduce flight delays, cancellations and diversions in the Delhi-NCR region.
Every winter, dense fog creates major problems for flight operations at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport. Poor visibility affects aircraft landings and take-offs, leading to delays and cancellations. Since Delhi is one of India’s busiest aviation hubs, these disruptions also affect flight schedules at several other airports across the country.
Noida International Airport, recently renamed Narendra Modi International Airport, could help reduce this pressure by providing another airport in the National Capital Region (NCR) with the ability to handle flights during low visibility conditions.
The airport began commercial operations on June 15, 2026, and is now working with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to obtain CAT III certification.
CAT III is an advanced aircraft landing system that allows specially equipped aircraft and trained pilots to operate in very low visibility conditions.
During winter, dense fog can make it difficult for pilots to see the runway clearly. This can affect safe landing operations and force airlines to delay or divert flights.
CAT III technology helps aircraft land safely when visibility is extremely poor, provided the aircraft, airport infrastructure and flight crew meet the required conditions.
If Noida International Airport receives this certification, it could handle more flights during foggy weather and provide an alternative for airlines operating in the Delhi-NCR region.
Noida International Airport has a 3,900-metre-long and 45-metre-wide runway. The runway is supported by an Instrument Landing System (ILS) and an advanced aeronautical ground lighting system.
These facilities are important for supporting aircraft operations during low visibility conditions.
According to airport vice-chairperson Christoph Schnellmann, the airport already has the required systems to support CAT III operations. The airport is currently completing the certification process with the DGCA.
The certification process is important because airport infrastructure must meet specific safety and technical requirements before CAT III operations can begin.
Dense fog is a common problem for Delhi and nearby areas during December and January. During this period, visibility can drop significantly, affecting flight schedules at Delhi airport.
When aircraft cannot land safely because of poor visibility, airlines may have to delay flights, cancel services or divert aircraft to other airports.
Noida International Airport could help reduce these problems by providing another option for airlines and passengers.
Once CAT III certification is granted, the airport may be able to handle suitable aircraft during very low visibility conditions. This could help airlines manage their operations more efficiently during the winter season.
However, the benefits will also depend on aircraft equipment, pilot qualifications, weather conditions and the availability of suitable airport facilities.
The certification could be useful for both airlines and passengers travelling through Delhi-NCR.
Airlines may get more flexibility when planning their winter flight schedules. Instead of depending entirely on Delhi airport during fog-related disruptions, they could have another airport available for suitable operations.
Passengers may also benefit from fewer disruptions if flights can operate more reliably during poor visibility.
Noida International Airport could also become an important part of the region’s aviation network by supporting additional passenger traffic and improving connectivity.
Although Noida International Airport has installed important systems required for CAT III operations, it must complete the certification process before starting such operations.
The DGCA will examine the airport’s infrastructure, safety arrangements and technical capabilities before granting approval.
The airport management is working towards meeting the necessary requirements.
The development of Noida International Airport is expected to improve air travel facilities across the National Capital Region. Its CAT III certification plan is particularly important because winter fog regularly affects flight operations in northern India.
If the airport receives approval, it could provide additional support to airlines during the fog season and help reduce pressure on Delhi’s IGI Airport.
With its long runway, Instrument Landing System and advanced ground lighting facilities, Noida International Airport is preparing to improve its ability to operate in challenging weather conditions.
The upcoming DGCA certification will be an important step towards making the airport more useful during winter. It could offer passengers another reliable travel option and help improve flight operations across Delhi-NCR.
Ajeet Yadav is an aviation enthusiast covering airline news, airports, aircraft, and industry developments through well-researched and reliable reporting.
