Heavy rain, strong winds and poor visibility disrupted flight operations at Delhi and Mumbai airports on Sunday, forcing diversions, cancellations and a temporary suspension of runway operations at the country's busiest aviation hubs.
Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport suspended runway operations for an hour after adverse weather, including gusts of up to 42 knots, lashed the city on Sunday morning.
Airport authorities said runway operations were halted at 10.17 am as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of passengers, aircraft and ground personnel. Flight movements resumed at 11.17 am after weather conditions improved.
According to airport sources, 13 aircraft operated by various airlines were diverted during the disruption, while four IndiGo flights were cancelled. All diverted aircraft later returned and landed safely in Mumbai.
Delhi flights diverted
In the national capital, heavy rain and gusty winds also affected flight schedules, with airport sources confirming that 15 flights were diverted. Of these, 10 domestic services were rerouted to Jaipur, while five international flights were diverted to Lucknow.
The weather-related disruptions affected airlines across their networks, prompting carriers to issue travel advisories and urge passengers to monitor flight schedules before leaving for the airport.
Also read: Mumbai on red alert, active monsoon grips Central India
Low-cost carrier Akasa Air said severe weather conditions in Delhi had affected some of its services.
"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," the airline said in a statement.
Airlines issue travel advisories
IndiGo said adverse weather over Delhi and Mumbai had affected flight schedules and that it was closely monitoring the situation.
"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," the airline said.
Air India also warned passengers that adverse weather conditions could affect flights to and from both Delhi and Mumbai.
The disruptions come as the southwest monsoon continues to intensify across large parts of the country, frequently affecting air traffic on the busy Delhi-Mumbai sector.
Airport operators and airlines said efforts were underway to minimise inconvenience through flight rescheduling, rebookings and passenger assistance, while advising travellers to check the latest flight status with their respective airlines before proceeding to the airport.
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