16 April,2024 05:07 AM IST | Mumbai | Prasun Choudhari
The runways will be shut for pre-monsoon preparation. File Pic/Sameer Markande
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Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) will temporarily close down its runways for pre-monsoon maintenance and repair work on May 9. The annual monsoon contingency plan involves the temporary closure of its primary runway 09/27 and secondary runway 14/32 from 11 am to 5 pm on Thursday, May 9, for the maintenance and repair work.
A NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) which is an official communication between airport and airlines has been issued to inform airlines and pilots about the temporary closure. The NOTAM whose copy is with mid-day reads, "RWY 09/27 AND RWY 14/32 NOT AVBL FOR LDG AND TKOF DUE PRE MONSOON PREVENTIVE MAINT OF INT RWY (SIC)"
"This proactive measure aims to enhance runway resilience and ensure smooth operations, particularly during the monsoon season. Operations are expected to resume as usual from May 9, 2024, post 1700hrs," said a press statement from CSMIA.
The press statement added that the yearly practice of runway maintenance work is crucial for the airport's operational continuity and passengers' safety. It involves specialists in engineering and airside teams inspecting the runway surface for wear and tear that may have occurred due to day-to-day operations. This helps in strengthening the airside strip and ensures safe landings and take-offs during monsoon.
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"CSMIA's primary runway 09/27 spans 3448m x 60m, and the secondary runway 14/32 spans 2871m x 45m. The maintenance work will include repairing any damage to the runways that may have occurred due to regular use, addressing concerns such as water logging, and ensuring the durability and longevity of the runway infrastructure," the press statement stated.
"CSMIA has strategically and meticulously planned the runway maintenance work in collaboration with its multiple stakeholders, including airlines and aviation authorities. As a collective goal to ensure zero inconvenience to its passengers, CSMIA has intimated all its relevant stakeholders six months in advance. This has also helped airlines to plan their flight schedules accordingly," said a spokesperson.
11 am-5 pm
Duration during which runways will be closed
