By adbnu564 
To stay ahead of the monsoon season and ensure flight safety, Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) conducted a full-scale, six-hour pre-monsoon maintenance operation on May 8. Both of the airport’s main runways—RWY 14/32 and RWY 09/27—were temporarily closed from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM to carry out this crucial safety protocol.
CSMIA, which handles over 950 aircraft movements each day, cannot afford operational disruptions. To pre-empt potential monsoon-related issues, airport operator Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL) supervised an extensive checklist of technical inspections and repairs.
What the Drill Involved
During the six-hour window:
- Runway rubber deposits were cleared to prevent aircraft skidding.
- Fresh markings were painted on the surface.
- Drainage channels were cleaned to ensure proper water flow.
- Over 3,000 runway edge and approach lights were individually tested.
- Electrical substations, drain pits, and navigation systems were also inspected.
This comprehensive drill ensures optimal runway friction, visibility during downpours, and fast drainage to avoid waterlogging.
No Flight Disruptions
Thanks to prior planning and coordination, the airport issued a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) to airlines in advance. As a result, no delays or cancellations were reported during the maintenance window.
“This monsoon readiness drill reflects our focus on operational resilience. Mumbai’s weather can test any infrastructure—this is how we stay prepared,” said a spokesperson from the airport.
Why This Matters
The annual monsoon maintenance is considered the most critical event in CSMIA’s calendar. While the airport undergoes routine checks throughout the year, the pre-monsoon inspection ensures safe landings and departures during India’s most challenging weather period.
With its runways now monsoon-ready, Mumbai Airport aims to continue offering seamless connectivity without compromising on passenger safety.