Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) is set to cease all flight operations for a duration of six hours on May 7, 2026, to allow for crucial pre-monsoon maintenance across its airside infrastructure. The airport will be non-operational from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, affecting both the primary runway 09/27 and the secondary runway 14/32.

This annual maintenance forms an essential part of CSMIA’s strategy for preparing for the monsoon season. Given the intensity of Mumbai’s rainy season, the airport operator, Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL), takes advantage of this time to ensure the safety and longevity of the extensive 1,033-acre airside area.

The closure has been strategically planned to minimise disruption, especially as CSMIA is one of the busiest single-runway airports in the world. Airport officials began consultations with relevant stakeholders six months prior to the closure to provide ample notice for any adjustments to flight schedules.

Advance Stakeholder Consultations

The proactive approach taken by CSMIA included notifying airlines and other stakeholders well in advance of the operational halt. This measure has allowed airlines to modify their flight schedules, facilitating better travel planning for passengers.

A statement from the officials confirmed the consultations, stating that these efforts are part of CSMIA’s comprehensive monsoon contingency plan. Such preparations are crucial in ensuring that airlines can manage operational logistics effectively during the maintenance period.

Additionally, the airport faced operational challenges earlier this year. On March 8, CSMIA witnessed significant disruptions with a total of 66 air traffic movements (ATMs) cancelled, comprising 32 arrivals and 34 departures. This event highlighted the complexities of managing operations in an airport servicing millions of passengers each year.

Recent Disruptions At The Airport

This situation left many passengers stranded, resulting in complaints regarding the availability of facilities at the airport during these disruptions. Affected passengers reported difficulties, particularly those travelling for religious purposes. One passenger shared that his family had a flight rescheduled on March 1 due to the conflict.

The recent disruptions and the upcoming maintenance underscore the importance of a well-structured contingency plan for CSMIA as it seeks to maintain its operational integrity and ensure passenger safety throughout varying conditions. As the monsoon approaches, the airport remains committed to implementing best practices in airport management.

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