Mumbai: IRB Sindhudurg Airport, operated by IRB Infrastructure Developers Ltd, has achieved a major operational upgrade with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) granting approval for 24×7 day-and-night, all-weather flight operations. The airport has been certified for Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) enabling aircraft operations during low visibility and adverse weather conditions.
The approval includes published satellite based Required Navigation Performance (RNP) procedures and the availability of a backup navigation aid. Together, these systems provide pilots with instrument approach guidance and also a reliable non-satellite backup, ensuring safer landings and more dependable flight operations for all aircraft types throughout the year.
This milestone coincides with strong passenger growth at Sindhudurg Airport. The airport recorded close to 11,000 passenger movements in December for the first time and is now expected to rank among India’s top 75 airports by monthly passenger footfall. To support this growth, aircraft parking capacity has been doubled from three to six aircraft stands, further reinforcing Sindhudurg’s position as an emerging aviation gateway for the Konkan region.
Capt. Jai S Sadana, Chief Adviser and Head, IRB Sindhudurg Airport, said, “The approval for 24×7 all-weather operations significantly enhances the airport’s reliability and operational capability. This will encourage airline confidence, support sustained traffic growth, and contribute meaningfully to economic and tourism development across the Konkan region. We are grateful to the regulators, authorities and the government for their guidance & support.” He added, “The Mumbai –Sindhudurg route under the State regional connectivity scheme is also expected to commence in the coming months. This will further improve connectivity, making travel more convenient for residents of the Konkan region and welcome visitors from across India.”
