How Delhi is managing 35 special aircraft during BRICS Summit

Source: The Hindu | Original Published At: 2026-09-12 04:01:24 UTC

Key Points

• Delhi coordinated aviation operations for about 35 special aircraft carrying BRICS Summit dignitaries, using Indira Gandhi International Airport, the Indian Air Force's Palam technical area, and other airports for parking.
• VVIP movements were separated from regular passenger processing, with senior visitors using ceremonial facilities and the highest-level visitors routed through the Palam technical area.
• The Directorate General of Civil Aviation restricted non-scheduled flights within a 300-km radius of Delhi from September 11 to 13, exempting scheduled commercial flights and approved BRICS-related special flights.
• Scheduled airlines had arrival and departure timings adjusted by about 10-15 minutes where necessary, while overlapping movements could lead to holding in the air or temporary diversion to another airport.
• Noida International Airport, Safdarjung Airport, Hindon Airport, and two other airports were incorporated into the wider parking plan for visiting aircraft.
• Security checks included testing two samples of aviation fuel supplied to visiting aircraft, while light aircraft, micro-light aircraft, and UAV operations were restricted within the 300-km radius.