GMR Hyderabad International Airport Limited (GHIAL) in India has commissioned four additional Rapid Exit Taxiways (RETs), with an aim to streamline flight operations at the airport.
The new RETs will increase the capacity of the runway from the existing 36 to more than 45 aircraft movements per hour, enhancing the operational efficiency of the airport.
After major rehabilitation works, GHIAL has also commissioned its main runway.
These RETs will lower the runway occupancy time by enabling the aeroplane to taxi off the runaway at a relatively shorter distance.
The overhaul project is expected to provide safer aircraft operations by increasing the Pavement Classification Number (PCN) and friction values of the runway.
For saving energy and lowering CO₂ emissions, the airport has converted 98% of its Airside lighting (Airfield signage, taxiway centerline lights, runway lights) to energy-efficient LED lighting.
These new LED lights will provide visibility across the airfields even in unfavourable weather settings and facilitate safer flights.
The Aeronautical Ground Lighting (AGL) upgrade was executed under the runway rehabilitation.
In a statement, GHIAL said: “Since inception, GHIAL is committed to conducting the airport operations in an environment-friendly and sustainable manner. A significant amount of energy saving has been achieved through various energy conservation practices.
“As part of this strategy, earlier, halogen lightings were replaced with LEDs at the terminal building and offices. GHIAL has now extended this initiative to Airside operations also.”
In January, GHIAL announced plans to raise $300m by issuing bonds in the international bond market to fund the airport’s development plans.
A part of GMR Airports Limited and GMR Infrastructure Limited (GMR Group), GHIAL signed a purchase agreement for issuing and allotting $300m through 4.75% senior secured notes of five-year tenure.
