
Mumbai, May 7: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) in Mumbai will suspend flight operations for six hours on Thursday, from 11 AM to 5 PM. This temporary closure is due to scheduled maintenance work on both runways in preparation for the upcoming monsoon season.
Officials have confirmed that the closure will affect Runway 09/27 and Runway 14/32, resulting in a complete halt of airport operations during this period. This maintenance is part of the airport’s annual monsoon preparedness program, aimed at ensuring operational safety and smooth flight operations during heavy rainfall in Mumbai.
Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL), which operates the airport, stated that this work is essential for the maintenance and safety of the expansive 1,033-acre airside infrastructure.
Acknowledging the impact of this temporary closure at one of the world’s busiest airports, officials have been in consultation with airlines and key stakeholders for nearly six months. This proactive approach aims to adjust flight schedules and minimize passenger inconvenience.
The airport operator noted, “As part of CSMIA’s comprehensive monsoon contingency plan, consultations with stakeholders began six months ago. This advance notice has allowed airlines to adjust their flight schedules and plan accordingly.”
In recent months, the airport has experienced significant disruptions. On March 8, a total of 66 air traffic activities were canceled, including 32 arrivals and 34 departures. Earlier, on March 3, operations were even more severely affected, with 107 flights canceled, comprising 54 arrivals and 53 departures. These disruptions were linked to ongoing conflicts in West Asia, causing considerable inconvenience for passengers, many of whom were stranded at the airport.
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