Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) will temporarily suspend all flight operations for six hours on October 17, 2024, to carry out essential post-monsoon runway maintenance. The shutdown, scheduled from 11 AM to 5 PM, will affect both of the airport’s cross runways—Runway 09/27 and Runway 14/32. This annual maintenance is a crucial part of the airport’s broader strategy to maintain infrastructure integrity and ensure safe, smooth operations throughout the year, especially following the wear and tear from the heavy monsoon rains.
The post-monsoon maintenance aims to address various structural issues that may arise due to waterlogging, erosion, and other challenges posed by the rainy season. The maintenance work includes repairing surface damage, re-painting runway markings, cleaning drainage systems, and conducting inspections of lighting and navigational aids. Given Mumbai’s position as one of India’s busiest airports, handling hundreds of flights daily, this planned closure will help prevent any unexpected operational disruptions in the future.
Airport authorities have been working closely with airlines and other stakeholders to minimize inconvenience to travelers. Adjustments to flight schedules, including rescheduling or re-routing of flights, have been made in advance, allowing airlines to inform passengers of the changes ahead of time. Passengers are advised to stay in touch with their respective airlines and verify any updates on flight statuses. The airport’s official communication channels and customer service centers are also available for real-time updates.
The temporary closure will likely lead to some rescheduling of both domestic and international flights, but authorities are aiming to reduce the overall impact by coordinating the transition smoothly. Post-maintenance, normal operations will resume, with the runway systems operating under fully restored conditions, thus ensuring passenger safety and efficiency.
This annual routine has become essential to maintaining Mumbai Airport’s standing as a critical hub for aviation in India, enabling it to handle growing traffic while upholding stringent safety standards.