12 Nov 2026
#2 November 2026: India Aviation Newsletter
Hyderabad Airport Introduces CAT III Airfield Capability
GMR Hyderabad International Airport has commissioned CAT III airfield ground-lighting capability on Runway 09R. The upgrade is intended to support aircraft operations in substantially lower visibility, particularly during the winter fog season. The project also includes advanced monitoring systems, stand manoeuvring guidance lights and an indigenously developed centralised control system linked to the airport’s predictive operations centre.
India’s International Passenger Traffic Reaches 78.7 Million
India’s international air passenger traffic increased 6.1 per cent to 78.7 million during the financial year ended March 2026, according to DGCA data. Domestic traffic increased 1.1 per cent to 167.4 million. However, the share of international passengers carried by Indian airlines declined from 45.7 per cent to 44.4 per cent, indicating that overseas carriers captured a larger portion of the market’s growth.
Singapore Airlines Reports Progress In Air India Transformation
Singapore Airlines said Air India has improved customer experience and operations, though its transformation will take more time. Its share of Air India-related losses fell from 429.5 million Singapore dollars to 361.7 million Singapore dollars in the first half of FY2026/27. Shareholders remain focused on cost efficiencies, closer cooperation with Air India Express and a sharper commercial strategy.
Acumen’s Take
On Hyderabad Airport’s CAT III Capability
CAT III infrastructure can improve schedule reliability and reduce diversions during low-visibility conditions. The operational benefit will depend on alignment among airport systems, suitably equipped aircraft, qualified flight crews, and effective coordination among airlines, air traffic control, and ground operators.
On International Passenger Growth
India’s international market continues to expand, but the decline in the share carried by Indian airlines shows that traffic growth does not automatically translate into domestic-carrier market share. Fleet availability, international partnerships, hub connectivity and long-haul network execution will be central to improving that position.
On Air India’s Transformation
The reduction in Air India-related losses is encouraging, but the scale of the transformation means progress must be assessed across several years. Sustainable improvement will depend on fleet reliability, aircraft utilisation, integration with Air India Express, cost control and the effective deployment of future aircraft deliveries.
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