GMR Aero led GHIAL Enhances Runway Operations with CAT III Capability at Hyderabad Airport
GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd. (GHIAL), a GMR Aero-led consortium, has successfully commissioned CAT III Airfield Ground Lighting (AGL) capability for Runway 09R at Hyderabad International Airport, marking a significant enhancement to the airport’s airside infrastructure and operational capabilities. The upgraded capability will enable aircraft operations in significantly lower visibility conditions, helping reduce weather-related flight diversions and delays while ensuring a more reliable and seamless travel experience for passengers, particularly during the winter fog season.
The transition from CAT II to CAT III capability strengthens Hyderabad Airport’s ability to maintain efficient flight operations during adverse weather conditions, improving schedule reliability and minimizing disruptions caused by low visibility. Passengers will benefit from more predictable journeys and enhanced connectivity, while airlines will be able to maintain greater operational continuity and on-time performance.
Mr. Kadhir Kadhiravan, Chief Executive Officer, GMR Hyderabad International Airport Limited, said: “Hyderabad Airport has achieved a significant milestone in its journey towards becoming a future-ready, all-weather aviation hub with the introduction of CAT III capability. Aligned with the airport’s vision of leveraging advanced infrastructure and technology, the enhancement enables safe and efficient operations during extremely low visibility conditions, reducing weather-related disruptions and improving schedule reliability. For passengers, this means fewer delays, smoother journeys, and a more dependable travel experience. The capability further strengthens Hyderabad Airport’s position as a globally benchmarked gateway committed to the highest standards of safety, operational excellence, and service delivery.”
To strengthen operations during low-visibility conditions, Hyderabad Airport has upgraded critical airfield systems, including CAT III-compliant runway lighting, advanced monitoring systems, and Stand Maneuvering Guidance Lights (SMGL), which provide enhanced guidance for pilots and improve airfield safety. An indigenously developed PLC (Programmable Logic Controller)-SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition)-based solution has also been implemented, enabling centralized monitoring and control of lighting systems from the Airport Predictive Operation Centre (APOC), further enhancing airside efficiency and operational effectiveness.
With the successful implementation of CAT III capability, Hyderabad Airport further reinforces its commitment to operational excellence and technology-driven innovation. The enhancement improves the airport’s readiness to manage low-visibility operations while supporting seamless connectivity and an enhanced passenger experience.
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