GG News Bureau
Mumbai, 15th Feb. As travel restrictions ease post-pandemic, Mumbai Airport, one of the country’s busiest, grapples with congestion issues impacting air traffic and passenger experiences. Excessive runway capacity and prolonged circling times have prompted concerns, with aircraft forced to hover for up to 60 minutes due to airspace congestion.
The prolonged circling times have significant implications, with aircraft consuming up to 2.5 kiloliters of jet fuel, costing approximately Rs. 2.6 lakhs, per hour. Such costs, ultimately borne by consumers, exacerbate operational inefficiencies and lead to delays for both passengers and airlines.
To address the airspace congestion, an analysis by the Airport Authority of India revealed disparities in air traffic distribution throughout the day, particularly during High Intensity Runway Operations (HIRO) periods. Despite attempts to regulate air traffic, persistent congestion persists due to excessive slot distribution and non-compliance from airlines.
In response, the Ministry of Civil Aviation intervened, issuing directives to restrict air traffic movements during HIRO and non-HIRO periods, aiming to enhance airspace safety and operational efficiency.
The Government emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts between airport operators and airlines to ensure a seamless flying experience for passengers.
