Delhi puts special aviation measures in place for BRICS

Delhi has put in place extensive aviation arrangements for the ongoing BRICS Summit, with provisions to accommodate around 35 special aircraft.

For security reasons, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has imposed a 300-kilometre airspace restriction on non-scheduled operations, with an exception for flights approved as part of the BRICS Summit.

The exemptions cover regular scheduled airline services; special flights carrying BRICS Summit dignitaries and associated movements, provided their flight plans receive prior approval from Air Traffic Control (ATC), with these operations treated as scheduled flights; flights operated by the Indian Air Force (IAF), Border Security Force (BSF) and Aviation Research Centre; Army helicopters deployed for quick-response or emergency medical evacuation missions; and state government aircraft or helicopters carrying a Governor or Chief Minister.

Regular scheduled flights and overflights will continue to operate on their normal routes through the 300-kilometre zone, but will be subject to altitude restrictions. During ascent, aircraft must reach Flight Level 290 (FL290) by the time they are 200 kilometres from Delhi. During descent, aircraft can begin descending from FL290 only once they are at least 200 kilometres from Delhi.

Security agencies are coordinating closely to manage the heightened security arrangements. Routes for VVIP movements are being finalised at short notice, while scheduled flight operations are being coordinated to avoid conflicts. Private jets are also undergoing stringent security checks.

The movement of drones, light aircraft and microlight aircraft has been restricted within the designated airspace. On the ground, aviation fuel is also being tested as a precaution against possible tampering, with the measures aimed at ensuring safe and uninterrupted operations during the high-profile event.

Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) and Palam Airport are handling the arrival of special flights, while Noida International Airport and Hindon Airport are being used to accommodate aircraft as part of the parking arrangements. Safdarjung Airport is also part of the wider parking and security plan for special aircraft during the BRICS Summit, although the facility remains closed to general or regular flight operations.

VVIP flights are being allocated a dedicated and secure area at Palam Airport, helping ensure that regular commercial flight operations remain unaffected.