When planning any construction project near an airport in India, one of the crucial factors that architects, builders, and property developers must consider is the permissible height of the building. Airports require clear flight paths for the safe landing and takeoff of aircraft, and any obstacles in these paths can be a significant safety hazard. As a result, strict regulations govern how tall structures can be near airports. Understanding these rules is essential to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.

Why Building Height Restrictions Are Important

Airplanes need clear, obstacle-free paths during critical phases of flight such as landing and takeoff. Buildings, communication towers, and other structures that are too tall can interfere with flight operations, posing risks to aviation safety. Therefore, regulations on building heights are designed to protect:

• Aircraft operations

• Passenger safety

• Property and lives on the ground

Who Regulates Building Heights Near Airports?

In India, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) are the main regulatory bodies overseeing building heights around airports. They work in accordance with the Aircraft Act, 1934, and Aircraft Rules, 1937, along with other local municipal rules and the National Building Code.

Developers must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the AAI before constructing buildings within a certain radius of an airport.

Key Guidelines for Building Heights Near Airports

1. Zoning and Radius Regulations
2. Building height restrictions depend on the distance of the construction site from the airport reference point (ARP):
3. o Within 5 km of the airport: Strictest height restrictions apply.
4. o 5 km to 10 km: Slightly relaxed restrictions, but still under strict scrutiny.
5. o Beyond 10 km up to 20 km: Moderate restrictions based on approach paths and navigational aids.
6. Obstacle Limitation Surfaces (OLS)
7. Airports have imaginary surfaces surrounding them known as Obstacle Limitation Surfaces. These surfaces define the limit to which an object can project into the airspace. If a building breaches these surfaces, it may not receive approval.
8. Permissible Height Calculation
9. The permissible height is determined by:
10. o Elevation of the airport
11. o Height of the natural ground level
12. o Distance from the airport
13. o Type of runway (Instrumental or Visual)
14. o Runway orientation and flight paths
15. The formula and standards are detailed in AAI’s guidelines for Obstacle Limitation Surfaces.
16. NOC Requirement
17. Before starting construction:
18. o Apply for NOC through the AAI’s online portal.
19. o Submit details like coordinates, ground level, and proposed height.
20. o Await survey, scrutiny, and approval.
21. Penalties for Violation
22. Unauthorized constructions exceeding the permissible height can lead to:
23. o Demolition orders
24. o Heavy fines
25. o Blacklisting of builders
26. o Legal proceedings under the Aircraft Act
27. Special Cases
28. • Helipads and Heliports: Separate norms exist for heliports within city limits.
29. • Urban Areas: In dense urban areas, special considerations may apply, but NOC remains mandatory.
30. • Redevelopment Projects: Height approvals need fresh clearances even if replacing an existing structure.
31. Conclusion
32. Building near an airport in India requires careful planning and adherence to aviation safety regulations. Developers must prioritize obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) and ensuring their construction remains within the permissible height limits. By doing so, they contribute to maintaining safe air navigation and avoid potential legal troubles. Always consult with experts and regulatory authorities early in your project planning to ensure a smooth approval process.