Both runways of the Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) are now compatible for Code F aircraft operations, meaning wide-bodied aircraft, including the world’s largest passenger aircraft – the Airbus A380, can take off and land on the two runways.
The KIA has two runways: the North Runway (Old Runway) and the South Runway (New Runway). KIA is the only airport in South India to operate independent parallel runways, enabling aircraft to land or take off simultaneously on both runways. However, until now only the South Runway was Code F compliant.
According to a Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs), now the North Runway has become Code F compliant.
The Bangalore International Airport Ltd. (BIAL), which operates KIA, confirmed getting approval from the aviation regulator and that the North Runway is now compatible for Code F aircraft.
“We had approached the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and have received approvals. However, it is for the airlines to decide when they want to start A380 operations from the North Runway. The airline would be doing security checks before starting flight operations from this runway,” BIAL sources told The Hindu.
At present, Emirates is the only airline that operates the A380 from KIA. The airline operates scheduled daily A380 services between Bengaluru and Dubai.
BIAL sources said that with both runways now compatible for Code F aircraft operations, it gives a lot of flexibility to the operators and saves fuel.
“This gives us a lot of operational flexibility as the aircraft can take off and land from both runways, and this will improve the Air Traffic Movement and lead to better fuel efficiency,” BIAL sources said.
Sources added that once the elevated western cross-field taxiway is ready, it is expected to further enhance operational efficiency and safety for aircraft taxiing between the two terminals (Terminal 1 and Terminal 2) and two runways (North and South) of the airport.
Published – September 04, 2025 09:35 pm IST
