53 flights cancelled at Mumbai airport, 27 diverted due to low visibility | Mumbai News

Mumbai: As many as 53 flights, both domestic and international, were cancelled at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport on Monday due to reduced visibility and torrential rains. The weather conditions led to the diversion of 27 aircraft to nearby airports.

Of the 52 flights cancelled till 11 am, 42 were operated by IndiGo, including 22 arrivals and 20 departures, 6 flights by Air India (3 arrivals and 3 departures), 2 flights by Air India Express and 1 departure by Qatar Airways. State-owned airline Alliance Air also had to cancel two flights (one departure and one arrival) on Monday, a source added.

Visibility was very low, leading to the suspension of the runway between 02:22 and 03:40. Subsequently, priority was given to delayed arrivals and departures, and significant changes were made to accommodate the diverted flights.

Low visibility presents several challenges to aircraft operations and can make landing impossible and increase the risk of aircraft runway incursions.

Several airlines have issued specific advisories stating that several flights to and from Mumbai have been delayed, diverted or cancelled due to the heavy rains. Some airlines have offered the option to seek alternative flights or request a full refund.

A CSMIA spokesperson said: “The severe weather at CSMIA on July 8 resulted in a temporary suspension of flights. CSMIA has deployed airport staff to the terminals to support passengers and provide them with the necessary assistance. As part of our commitment to passenger safety and comfort, CSMIA has also arranged for additional seating and water for passengers. The airport is also in close contact with local authorities,” the spokesperson said.

Passengers have been advised to connect with their respective airlines and check schedules before arriving at the airport.

The Juhu airfield was closed on Monday. It is mainly used for helicopter operations that serve the Oil and Natural Gas Board platforms. The entire airport was flooded and the Airports Authority of India officials have asked the BMC to pump out the water. Normally, the Juhu airport sees 80-90 helicopter takeoffs and landings. Fixed-wing aircraft operations will be suspended for a few days.