Centre imposes flight restrictions to ease Mumbai airport congestion

High-Intensity Runway Operations (HIRO) specifically spans from 8 am to 11 am, 5 pm to 8 pm, and 9:15 pm to 11:15 pm.

In response to escalating congestion at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), the Central Government has imposed flight restrictions aimed at easing airspace congestion, it has been learnt from an ANI report. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has cited various factors contributing to the congestion, including excessive slot distribution and non-scheduled flight operations during peak hours.

Despite a surge in air traffic following the pandemic, the airport failed to implement sufficient measures, according to the Ministry, states the report. The directive to reduce flights was issued to Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL), operated by the Adani Group, after it allegedly neglected to address the issue of excessive slot distribution.

The Ministry, led by Jyotiraditya Scindia, highlighted the significant delays caused by congestion, with flights forced to hover over the city for up to 60 minutes.

An analysis by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) revealed that air traffic during peak hours was comparable to off-peak hours, exacerbated by non-scheduled flights and military operations. The ministry underscored the responsibility of MIAL to regulate air traffic but intervened due to a lack of action.

Effective January 2, 2024, the AAI issued a notice restricting air traffic movement during peak hours, aiming to reduce congestion and enhance safety and efficiency.

These instructions limit the movement of air traffic during periods of High-Intensity Runway Operations (HIRO), specifically spanning from 8 am to 11 am, 5 pm to 8 pm, and 9:15 pm to 11:15 pm.

The limitations aim to mitigate economic and ecological repercussions, including significant fuel wastage, longer wait times, and delays affecting passengers and airlines.

The government's action underscores the imperative of addressing congestion for the welfare of passengers, airlines, and the environment.

(With inputs from agencies)