Aviation and Airlines(Commonwelth Union)_The airport is bracing for a significant influx of important passengers in connection with the upcoming G20 summit in New Delhi. Authorities from New Delhi, India, and Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) have issued warnings to passengers about potential disruptions later this week. The G20 summit is scheduled to take place in New Delhi from September 9 to September 10, bringing together representatives from 20 countries to coordinate global economic policies.
The G20 consists of leaders, finance ministers, treasurers, and central bank governors from each of the 20 member countries. The arrival of these high-level officials necessitates meticulous planning and coordination as they travel to India. As a result, Indian government officials announced on Monday that other passengers traveling during the G20 summit may experience some inconveniences. These inconveniences are primarily expected to manifest as minor delays during take-offs and landings, particularly when various global politicians arrive at the airport. International flights are likely to be most affected by these delays.
Currently, Delhi Airport operates an average of nearly 1,300 flights per day, encompassing both domestic and international routes. The Indian government estimates that nearly 25% of these flights, totaling over 300, may be impacted by these delays. A government spokesperson, who requested anonymity, commented on the potential delays, stating that the most significant impact on flight operations is expected on Friday when dignitaries from various countries will be arriving in the city, as well as on Sunday when they are scheduled to depart from IGI Airport.
These delays are also attributed to increased airspace separation requirements, as mandated by the ministries of external and home affairs. More than 100 flights are anticipated to be canceled in accordance with these requirements. Parking spaces for aircraft at the airport have been allocated in advance. Apart from civil aircraft, numerous airlines in the region are expected to be affected by these potential delays.
Some airlines have chosen to accommodate these delays, while others have announced flight cancellations. Air India, headquartered in Delhi, has offered passengers a one-time waiver for flight changes. This waiver permits passengers traveling from September 7 to September 11 to modify the date or time of their flight ahead of the announced restrictions. IndiGo, which lists IGI as one of its operating bases, has also introduced flexibility for travelers ahead of the weekend. IndiGo, like Air India, has confirmed that passengers can change their flight for this upcoming weekend or opt for a full refund.
Last week, airport officials disclosed that they had received requests for the cancellation of over 80 departing and 80 arriving domestic flights over the course of the three-day G20 summit. However, they emphasized that no international flights were anticipated to be canceled. The airport is committed to working closely with airlines to minimize any inconvenience caused to passengers during this period.
