Flying from Mumbai on November 19? Airport to shut both runways for six hours | Check Details

Edited By: Sia Viju
Representational image
Representational image

Passengers travelling through Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) on November 19, 2026, should prepare for possible flight schedule changes as the airport will suspend all flight operations for six hours. Both runways will be temporarily closed between 11 am and 5 pm to facilitate the airport's annual post-monsoon maintenance work.

The closure means aircraft will neither be permitted to take off nor land during the scheduled window. Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL), which operates the airport, has announced the shutdown in advance to allow airlines and other aviation stakeholders to plan their operations and minimise inconvenience to passengers.

The maintenance exercise is part of the airport's routine safety programme and is intended to ensure that its runway infrastructure remains in optimal condition.

Which runways will be closed at Mumbai airport?

The scheduled maintenance will affect both intersecting runways at CSMIA — RWY 09/27 and RWY 14/32. Both will remain unavailable for aircraft movements from 11 am to 5 pm on November 19. 

As a result, all scheduled arrivals and departures falling within these six hours will be affected. Airlines have been notified ahead of the closure and are expected to make the necessary adjustments to their flight schedules and operational arrangements.

Although the closure is temporary, passengers travelling shortly before or after the maintenance window may also experience changes to their scheduled timings.

Why is Mumbai airport suspending flight operations?

The six-hour shutdown is part of CSMIA's annual post-monsoon runway maintenance programme. Regular inspections and repairs are carried out after the rainy season to address wear and tear and ensure that the airport's infrastructure remains safe for aircraft operations.

The work will involve detailed runway inspections, surface repairs and technical checks of essential infrastructure, including lighting systems, runway markings and drainage facilities. These measures are intended to maintain operational reliability and ensure compliance with international aviation safety standards.

MIAL has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) ahead of the exercise. The advance notification gives airlines, air traffic-related stakeholders and airport teams time to coordinate flight schedules, staffing and other operational requirements.

Mumbai airport closure on November 19: What passengers should know

Travellers with confirmed bookings on November 19 are advised to check directly with their respective airlines for the latest flight information before leaving for the airport.

Passengers scheduled to fly between 11 am and 5 pm should particularly watch for notifications regarding revised departure and arrival times, cancellations or rescheduling.

Flight schedules around the maintenance period may also be adjusted to accommodate the temporary suspension. Travellers should therefore verify their updated timings rather than rely solely on the original booking details.

The airport operator has planned the maintenance well in advance to enable coordination with airlines and minimise disruption. Passengers are advised to monitor official airline communications for updates regarding their journeys.