Govt says delays in flight arrivals reduced, traffic situation improved at Mumbai airport
The civil aviation ministry announced that the air traffic situation at Mumbai airport has improved, with reduced flight delays, nearly two months after implementing measures to tackle congestion. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) is one of India’s busiest airports.
Comparing flight arrival trends between November 11-December 10, 2023, and February 16-24, 2024, the ministry reported positive results from its initiatives. During the latter period, there were 4,337 arrivals, with no delays exceeding one hour, and 570 aircraft arriving before schedule.
In contrast, during November 11-December 10, 2023, there were 14,476 arrivals, with 1,641 aircraft delayed over an hour. The ministry attributed congestion and delays to aircraft operating earlier than approved slots, leading to a cascading effect on other scheduled movements.
The airport’s two intersecting runways limit simultaneous operations, with a peak hour capacity of 46 aircraft movements during High Intensity Runway Operations (HIRO). To reduce congestion, the ministry directed Mumbai airport to restrict non-scheduled flights and reduce aircraft movements to 44 per hour during HIRO and 42 during non-HIRO periods.
Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL) and airlines have implemented these measures since February 20, with domestic airlines advised to adhere strictly to allotted slots. Airlines have also reduced flights to and from Mumbai airport.
An analysis by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) identified excessive slot allocation and poor adherence as major contributors to congestion, leading to the ministry’s directives.