Akasa Air Cancelled Two Mumbai-Bengaluru Flights to Tackle Airport Congestion

In response to ongoing congestion issues at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Akasa Air has taken measures to alleviate traffic by cancelling two more flights between Mumbai and Bengaluru.

The decision, effective until March 30, comes as part of the airline’s efforts to comply with recent guidelines imposed by airport authorities.

Details of the Cancellations

Akasa Air has announced the cancellation of flights QP 1374 (Mumbai to Bengaluru) and QP 1362 (Bengaluru to Mumbai) between February 15 and March 30. This action supplements the four previously cancelled flights on the same route, contributing to the management of runway congestion at the busy airport.

Impact on Flight Operations

The adjustment in flight schedules is a direct response to the guidelines set forth by authorities managing the Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport. With a total of 54 services, comprising 27 departures and arrivals each, Akasa Air connects Mumbai to 12 destinations across the country.

The airline emphasized the necessity of rationalizing its network in light of the congestion, acknowledging the resultant cancellation of select flights.

Congestion At Mumbai Airport

The civil aviation ministry has criticized Mumbai Airport, the country’s second busiest, for not taking proactive measures to alleviate congestion and imposed flight curbs to address the issue.

Despite operating at full capacity, the airport’s congestion issues stem from excessive slot allocation with insufficient time margins, airlines not adhering to their slots, and unscheduled flights during peak hours, the ministry said.

Passenger Assistance and Flexibility

Acknowledging the inconvenience caused to affected travellers, Akasa Air has offered options for rebooking without additional fees or a full refund for those impacted by the cancellations.

• Free Rebooking: Passengers can rebook their flights to any date before April 15, 2024, at no additional cost, providing them with alternative travel arrangements amidst the schedule changes.
• Full Refund: If rebooking isn’t suitable, travellers can opt for a full refund.

Conclusion

As Mumbai’s airport authorities continue to grapple with congestion issues, Akasa Air’s proactive measures reflect the airline’s commitment to ensuring the smooth operation of its services while prioritizing passenger convenience.

With the cancellation of select flights and provisions for rebooking, the airline aims to mitigate disruptions for travellers navigating the Mumbai-Bengaluru route during this period of adjustment.