Domestic airlines canceled due to congestion at Mumbai airport

Some Domestic airlinesAirlines including Akasa and Spicejet have decided to cancel flights from Mumbai airport to ease air traffic congestion.

The move follows instructions issued by the Airports Authority of India to Adani-operated Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL).

Mumbai airport, known as one of India’s busiest hubs, has struggled with runway congestion and airspace saturation, causing flights to hover over the city for longer periods of time, ranging from 40 to 60 minutes. Extended circling times not only result in increased fuel consumption but also impose significant costs on airlines and passengers.

The aircraft consumes an average of 2,000 kilograms of fuel per hour, resulting in significant financial losses of around Rs 1.80,000 to Rs 2.60,000 per flight, depending on the duration of circling. The situation has raised concerns about fuel waste, operational inefficiencies and passenger dissatisfaction.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the Airports Authority of India has issued directives aimed at regulating air traffic flow during peak hours. These measures include restrictions on air traffic movement during High Intensity Runway Operations (HIRO) from 0800 hours. to 1100 hours and 1700 to 2000 hours to ease congestion.

However, while these actions are necessary for airspace safety and operational efficiency, they have prompted domestic airlines to cancel flights to comply with the new regulations. The move highlights the delicate balance between meeting the needs of airport operators, airlines and passengers.

While Mumbai airport is currently operating at full capacity, the ongoing congestion is caused by multiple factors, including over-allocation of flight slots, airline non-adherence to schedules and unscheduled operations during peak hours. Addressing these issues requires collaboration between airlines and airport authorities to effectively streamline operations.

While the decision to cancel flights may provide temporary relief, long-term solutions are necessary to ensure a seamless travel experience for passengers and maintain airport efficiency. As the Indian government intervenes to ease traffic congestion, stakeholders must work together to find sustainable solutions to this pressing problem.