Heavy rains and strong winds disrupted air traffic at Delhi and Mumbai airports. Mumbai suspended runway operations for 60 minutes, leading to 13 diversions and 4 cancellations. Delhi saw 15 flights diverted due to the adverse weather.
Heavy rains, strong gusty winds and reduced visibility wreaked havoc on air traffic at India’s major metropolitan airports on Sunday, leading to flight diversions, cancellations, and temporary runway suspensions.
Impact on Mumbai Airport
According to Mumbai airport authorities, adverse weather conditions struck at approximately 10:17 hrs, with strong gusty winds reaching up to 42 knots and heavy rain reducing visibility. As a safety precaution, runway operations were temporarily suspended to protect passengers, aircraft, and ground personnel. Normal operations resumed at 11:17 hrs after a 60-minute halt once weather conditions improved. Also, Mumbai Airport sources confirmed that 4 IndiGo flights were cancelled, 13 aircraft of various air operators were diverted, though all diverted aircraft have since landed back safely in Mumbai.
Delhi Airport Faces Diversions
Delhi airport sources reported that a total of 15 flights, 10 domestic and 5 international, were diverted to Jaipur and Lucknow due to the bad weather, heavy rains and strong winds.
Airlines Issue Advisories
Low-cost carrier Akasa Air issued a statement acknowledging the impact that, due to severe weather conditions in Delhi, certain flights across our network have been impacted. “We realise that this may inconvenience your travel plans and seek your patience and understanding. While this situation is completely beyond our control, please rest assured that our teams are always ready to assist you”
IndiGo released a travel advisory & conveyed to passengers that Bad weather over Delhi and Mumbai has impacted flight schedules. “We are closely monitoring the weather and doing our best to get you where you need to be, safely and smoothly.”
Air India also cautioned passengers, stating that Adverse weather conditions may impact flight operations to and from Mumbai and Delhi.
Passenger Advisory
The disruptions come amid the monsoon season when such weather events are common but can significantly affect dense air traffic corridors like the Delhi-Mumbai route. Airport and airline teams are working to minimise passenger inconvenience through rebookings and ground support. Passengers are advised to check with their respective airlines for the latest flight status and updates before heading to the airport. (ANI)
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