Hyderabad: 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. The development marks an enhancement to the airport’s airside infrastructure and operational capabilities, strengthening its ability to manage flight operations during adverse weather conditions.
The upgraded capability will allow aircraft to operate in significantly lower visibility conditions, helping reduce weather-related flight diversions and delays. It is also expected to support more reliable flight schedules and provide passengers with a smoother travel experience, particularly during the winter fog season.
CAT III Upgrade to Improve Flight Operations
The transition from CAT II to CAT III capability strengthens Hyderabad Airport’s ability to maintain flight operations during periods of reduced visibility. The enhancement is expected to improve schedule reliability and minimise disruptions caused by adverse weather conditions.
Passengers stand to benefit from more predictable journeys and enhanced connectivity, while airlines will have greater scope to maintain operational continuity and on-time performance during low-visibility conditions.
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.”
Advanced Airfield Systems Strengthen Low-Visibility Operations
As part of the upgrade, Hyderabad Airport has enhanced several critical airfield systems to support operations in low-visibility conditions. These include CAT III-compliant runway lighting, advanced monitoring systems and Stand Maneuvering Guidance Lights (SMGL).
The SMGL installations provide additional guidance to pilots during aircraft manoeuvring, contributing to improved airfield safety. The upgraded lighting and monitoring infrastructure are designed to support the airport’s operational requirements when visibility is significantly reduced.
The airport has also implemented an indigenously developed PLC (Programmable Logic Controller)-SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition)-based solution. This system enables centralised monitoring and control of airfield lighting systems from the Airport Predictive Operation Centre (APOC), further strengthening airside efficiency and operational effectiveness.
Hyderabad Airport Strengthens All-Weather Readiness
With the successful commissioning of CAT III capability on Runway 09R, Hyderabad Airport further reinforces its focus on operational excellence and technology-driven innovation.
The enhancement strengthens the airport’s preparedness for low-visibility operations while supporting flight connectivity, schedule reliability and passenger experience. It also forms part of the airport’s broader approach to developing advanced infrastructure and maintaining safety and operational standards across its airside facilities.
