Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) in Mumbai has completed its annual runway repair and maintenance just in time for the monsoon season. The work, which began on Thursday, May 9, 2024, at 1100hrs, concluded today, ensuring both runways – RWY 14/32 & 09/27 – resumed full operations by 1700hrs. Recognized as the world’s busiest single runway airport, CSMIA handles over 950 air traffic movements daily. The maintenance focused on enhancing operational efficiency and passenger convenience, crucial for withstanding the seasonal Mumbai rains.
In preparation for the monsoon, CSMIA carried out extensive runway inspections and implemented pre-monsoon strategies. These included identifying and examining areas prone to waterlogging, and conducting detailed checks of runway surfaces to identify any cracks, disjoints, and irregularities. The airport also serviced nearly 5,000 aeronautical ground lights and updated 1,300 ground markings to guide aircraft. Additionally, comprehensive repairs around the runways included segregating electrical cables for primary and secondary runways, performing both minor and major repairs at runway intersections, and conducting a Geotechnical survey by civil engineers on runway 14/32.
To prevent waterlogging, over 2000 drains and duct banks were inspected and cleaned, maintaining the integrity of underground utilities and the aeronautical lighting system crucial for safe navigation. CSMIA has also developed a Monsoon contingency plan in partnership with various stakeholders to manage weather disruptions effectively, ensuring continuous operation and reinforcing confidence among airlines and passengers. This proactive approach includes coordinated efforts with airlines to reschedule flights smoothly.
CSMIA appreciates the collaboration of all stakeholders in the runway maintenance efforts and values the patience and support of its passengers during this period. This annual maintenance is part of a comprehensive contingency strategy, underlining CSMIA’s commitment to ensuring operational continuity and passenger safety, particularly during the monsoon season. Through these measures, CSMIA continues to uphold its promise of delivering top-tier service and a seamless travel experience for all travelers and airlines operating from Mumbai.
