IATA backs carriers against unilateral capacity reduction at Mumbai airport

Mumbai: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has backed airlines in opposing any unilateral reduction in Mumbai airport capacity, saying any move to shift flights to Navi Mumbai must be based on a demand capacity assessment and only after mutual consultations and agreement with the affected carriers.

The global airlines body's comments follow the civil aviation ministry asking Adani Airports to defer a planned transfer of more than a third of Mumbai airport's international departures to the new Navi Mumbai airport during the redevelopment of Terminal 1 and submit a fresh roadmap after reengaging with airlines and other stakeholders.

IATA said any capacity changes should allow sufficient time for workable transition arrangements that minimise disruption to carriers and passengers.


Also read | IndiGo to launch daily non-stop flights from Pune to Bhubaneswar starting October 25

In an email to airlines, IATA said carriers could refer to the Worldwide Airport Slot Guidelines (WASG), including guidance on managing temporary reductions in airport capacity, and the civil aviation ministry's Guidelines for Slot Allocation.

The Slot Team pointed to provisions covering demand and capacity analysis, consultation and transparency, as well as capacity reductions after the initial submission deadline or earlier deadlines. It also called for considering alternatives before reductions or transfers, sufficient notice and a proper implementation period.

Also read | Adani asked to defer Mumbai airport's international flight shift to Navi Mumbai

IATA said Mumbai airport and the new Navi Mumbai International Airport should be treated separately for slot-coordination purposes. It also called for giving airline choices rather than forced relocation wherever possible, and protection of established historic precedence at the Mumbai airport where airlines are affected by transitional arrangements.