MUMBAI: The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai is gearing up for a six-hour hiatus, scheduled from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on October 17. The purpose behind this temporary shutdown is the imperative post-monsoon runway maintenance, as confirmed by an official statement released on September 22.

During this designated period, both of the airport's vital runways, 09/27 and 14/32, will be rendered non-operational to accommodate an extensive runway repair endeavor. To ensure the smooth execution of post-monsoon preventive maintenance activities, an advanced Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) had been issued six months in advance.

This strategic closure has been planned to facilitate much-needed repairs and maintenance, essential for upholding the airport's rigorous infrastructure standards. According to the official spokesperson, "This annual tradition of conducting post-monsoon runway maintenance is just one facet of our comprehensive efforts to ensure operational continuity and passenger safety. It reflects our unwavering commitment to prioritizing the passenger experience at the heart of our operations."

In other aviation news, Celebi India, a prominent aviation services provider, is contemplating an impressive investment of approximately $80 million over the next four years. The primary objective behind this substantial financial commitment is to expand their footprint across more airports and enhance their cargo handling capabilities.

Murali Ramachandran, President for India & Southeast Asia at Celebi Aviation Holdings, disclosed the company's ambitious plans to transition to an all-electric fleet at the airports they currently serve. At present, Celebi offers ground handling services at nine airports in India and oversees cargo operations at Delhi airport through a joint venture with Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL).

Ramachandran emphasized, "Celebi has already invested approximately USD 250 million since entering the Indian market in 2007. In the coming four years, we anticipate injecting an additional USD 28 million into ground handling operations and roughly USD 30 million into our cargo business."

Exciting News for Residents of MP: 244-KM of Delhi-Mumbai Expressway Now Accessible to the Public