Mumbai Rains Cause Flight Disruptions: Check Your Travel Advisory

Mumbai is currently experiencing severe disruptions following heavy rainfall, with over 300 millimetres recorded in just six hours between 01:00 am and 07:00 am on July 8. The downpour has caused widespread waterlogging in low-lying areas and major disruptions to transportation services, including flights, local trains, and BEST buses.

The Indian Meteorological Department has issued warnings of continued moderate to heavy rainfall across Mumbai and its suburbs over the next 24 hours.

Mumbai Airport reported to CNBC-TV18 that runway operations were suspended due to heavy rains and low visibility from 2:22 am to 3:40 am on July 8. During this period, 27 flights were diverted to alternative airports such as Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, and Indore. Currently, priority is being given to arriving flights, causing delays and adjustments in flight schedules.

Vistara has advised passengers of potential heavy traffic congestion and slow vehicle movement en route to Mumbai Airport. They recommend allowing extra travel time to avoid missing flights.

#TravelUpdate: Heavy traffic congestion and slow vehicle movement are expected enroute to Mumbai Airport today due to weather conditions. Customers are advised to allow more time for their journey to the airport. Thank you.

— Vistara (@airvistara) July 8, 2024

IndiGo has also issued an advisory, noting that flights to and from Mumbai are significantly affected by the adverse weather conditions. Passengers are urged to check their flight status on the airline's website or contact their ground team for alternative arrangements or refunds.

#6ETravelAdvisory: Flights to/from #Mumbai are impacted due to heavy rains. To opt for an alternate flight or claim a full refund, https://t.co/6643rYe4I7 or feel free to reach out to our on-ground team for any immediate assistance. For flight status, https://t.co/qyXdpB4rZm

— IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) July 8, 2024

Similarly, SpiceJet has cautioned travellers that their Mumbai flights may be impacted due to the ongoing weather challenges. They advise passengers to verify their flight status before heading to the airport.

#WeatherUpdate: Due to bad weather (heavy rain) in Mumbai (BOM), all departures/arrivals and their consequential flights may get affected. Passengers are requested to keep a check on their flight status via https://t.co/VkU7yLjZly.

— SpiceJet (@flyspicejet) July 8, 2024

Air India announces that Mumbai's heavy rains have led to flight disruptions and cancellations. The airline is offering full refunds or complimentary rescheduling options for bookings confirmed for travel on July 8, with conditions applying. For assistance, passengers are encouraged to contact Air India's customer service.

#ImportantUpdate: Heavy rains in Mumbai are affecting flight operations and resulting in cancellation of some of our flights. Air India is offering full refunds or a one-time complimentary rescheduling for bookings confirmed for travel on 8th July with some conditions.

For…

— Air India (@airindia) July 8, 2024

Apart from this, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has declared a holiday for the first session of all schools and colleges to ensure student safety. The BMC continues to monitor the situation closely, with all civic departments mobilized to manage the impact of the heavy rainfall.

In response to the situation, the National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF) has deployed multiple teams across Maharashtra, including in Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, Kolhapur, Sangli, Satara, Ghatkopar, Kurla, and Sindhudurg. These teams are on alert to respond swiftly to any flood-related emergencies and ensure public safety.

The situation remains fluid, and authorities advise residents and travellers to stay updated with official announcements and exercise caution during their commutes and travels.

In case of emergencies, residents are advised to call 1916 for immediate assistance.