Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) has emerged as an unsung hero, praised for its seamless handling of a significant surge in air traffic. Since April 24, 2025, following Pakistan's closure of its airspace to Indian flights, Mumbai ATC has experienced a notable increase in air traffic. This closure was enacted in response to India's diplomatic measures after a terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, which resulted in the loss of 26 lives. India retaliated by closing its airspace to Pakistani airlines on April 30, 2025.
The closure of Pakistani airspace has forced international carriers to reroute their flights, with many opting to fly through Mumbai's airspace. This includes flights originating from Northern India and Southeast Asia, heading towards the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas. Approximately 250 flights from Southeast Asia have been redirected, adding strain to Mumbai's ATC. Furthermore, the recent suspension of about 25 flight routes that previously allowed planes to enter Pakistan through Indian airspace has also contributed to the increased traffic. These routes were halted after missile strikes by Indian military forces on terror infrastructure in Pakistan. Consequently, foreign airlines are submitting revised flight plans, choosing to fly via Mumbai airspace.
Mumbai ATC, which typically handles between 950 and 970 daily arrivals and departures, including unscheduled flights, along with approximately 2,000 overflights, now manages a significantly higher volume of air traffic. Flights from Northern India that previously used the Bhopal-Ahmedabad-Karachi route to Muscat, bypassing Mumbai, are now routed through Mumbai airspace via Ahmedabad. This rerouting has increased Mumbai's ATC workload by an estimated 20%.
The surge in air traffic has had implications for airlines and passengers. Flights from Mumbai to international destinations like London and New York are facing delays of up to 2.5 hours due to rerouting over the Arabian Sea. These changes have increased operational costs for airlines, including additional fuel consumption and crew hours, potentially leading to higher ticket prices. Mumbai Airport, already one of India's busiest, faces challenges in coordinating takeoffs and landings with the added complexity of managing rerouted flights. Passengers can expect longer wait times at check-in counters and security checks due to heightened air traffic management requirements.
Despite these challenges, Mumbai Airport has been proactive in managing the situation. A special travel advisory has been issued, advising passengers to arrive early, adhere to security guidelines, and remain calm and cooperative. Intensified security checks are in place, and passengers are reminded to carry government-issued photo identification and keep travel documents ready. The airport has also advised passengers to pack light and avoid carrying prohibited items.
The efforts of Mumbai Airport and its ATC have been crucial in maintaining smooth air operations during this period of heightened geopolitical tensions. While other airports in northern and western India have suspended civilian flights, Mumbai has remained operational, demonstrating its resilience and capacity to handle increased air traffic. The airport's ability to adapt to these challenging circumstances has been commendable, ensuring minimal disruption to passengers and airlines.
