The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has expressed apprehensions regarding Mumbai airport’s plan to temporarily halt dedicated cargo flights to facilitate major infrastructure upgrades. Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL) announced that freighter operations will be suspended from August 2026 to May 31, 2027, a move that could significantly impact cargo handling at India’s second-busiest airport.
IATA noted that it had approached the airport operator in January seeking details on the proposed suspension and its broader operational effects but has yet to receive a response. The airline body stressed the importance of meaningful engagement with industry stakeholders, given Mumbai airport’s central role in domestic and international cargo flows. It also requested confirmation that the airport’s plans comply with Ministry of Civil Aviation guidelines and Worldwide Airport Slot Board best practices.
In a recent communication to airlines, MIAL reaffirmed that freight operations would be temporarily halted to enable taxiway and apron reconstruction work. The airport operator cited safety and capacity constraints as the reason behind the nearly ten-month suspension, including restricted aircraft movements near active airside areas, elevated safety risks from simultaneous passenger and cargo operations, and challenges in maintaining turnaround times during peak hours.
The airport’s upgrade programme encompasses both airside and landside improvements aimed at boosting long-term capacity. Key works include strengthening critical pavements, optimising aircraft movement zones, redeveloping cargo-adjacent facilities, and demolishing sections of the existing cargo terminal.
MIAL added that, after evaluating alternatives, a temporary suspension of dedicated freighter flights was unavoidable. However, Apron G will remain operational with an estimated service life of four years, subject to inspections and maintenance in accordance with standard airside pavement management practices.
Mumbai airport is a vital hub for pharmaceuticals, perishables, and high-value goods. Prolonged disruptions to cargo operations may divert traffic to other regional airports, potentially increasing costs and transit times for exporters and logistics companies.
Source: Prop News Time
