How Mumbai airport readies itself for monsoon: A 6-hour maintenance drill to keep flights safe and on time
On Thursday, both primary runways of Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport were closed between 11 am and 5 pm for routine maintenance; airport then returned to full runway operations from 5 pm.
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Most importantly, over 3,000 runway lights were individually inspected for wear and tear -- essential for visibility during poor weather. Drain pits, electrical substations, and navigational aid cables were checked, too. (Express photo by Sankhadeep Banerjee)Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) has wrapped up its annual pre-monsoon runway maintenance on May 8 — part of a high-stakes, tightly choreographed drill aimed at keeping one of India’s busiest airports safe, efficient, and monsoon-ready.
On Thursday, both primary runways, RWY 14/32 and RWY 09/27, were closed between 11 am and 5 pm for routine maintenance, checked, repaired, and cleared for use just in time for night flights. The airport then returned to full runway operations from 5 pm.
As part of this large-scale preventive exercise, airport operator Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL) supervised a variety of tasks such as repairs to the pavements, removal of rubber from the runway to avoid skidding, new surface painting, and cleaning of drains so that water does not accumulate during heavy rain.
Most importantly, over 3,000 runway lights were individually inspected for wear and tear — essential for visibility during poor weather. Drain pits, electrical substations, and navigational aid cables were checked, too.
The airport spokesperson explained, “Mumbai’s monsoon can challenge the best of infrastructure, and this operation is our commitment to flight safety, runway friction, and seamless landings even in torrential rain.”
To prevent disturbing flyers, a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) was given beforehand so airlines could schedule around the maintenance block. There were no delays or cancellations reported, courtesy of what officials called “minute-by-minute” coordination.
CSMIA sees more than 950 aircraft movements per day, and any breakdown in infrastructure can bring operations to a grinding halt. This drill, they assure, prevents that from happening when the skies are opened up.
Regular inspections throughout the year help, but pre-monsoon readiness remains the most crucial check in the airport’s calendar. With its runways now refreshed, CSMIA is prepared to take on Mumbai monsoon, ensuring that passengers get to fly in and out safely.
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