Brace yourselves as the Indian Air Force (IAF) gears up to paint the Mumbai skies with a thrilling display of aerial prowess, leading to a temporary closure of flight operations at Mumbai Airport. The closure is scheduled for three days, from January 12, 2024, to January 14, 2024.
Indian Air Force’s Skyward Showcase
In collaboration with the Government of Maharashtra, the IAF has organized an extraordinary aerial display over Marine Drive in Mumbai. This spectacle is part of the IAF’s outreach program to establish a deeper connection with the local community.
Mumbai Airport to Remain Temporarily Closed
To ensure the success of this aviation spectacle, both runways at Mumbai’s CSMIA runways (RWY 09/27 & 14/32) will remain non-operational from 12:00 hrs. to 13:00 hrs. on 12th, 13th and 14th January 2024.
This temporary closure necessitates a pause in flight operations, impacting air travel for the duration of the event.
- Dates: 12 to 14 January 2024
- Time: 12:00 PM to 01:00 PM
Furthermore, the Mumbai Airport in a social media post stated that a NOATM (Notice to Airmen) has already been issued in advance in this regard to streamline the flight operations.

Akasa Air’s Advisory for Affected Flights
Acknowledging the temporary closure, the low-cost carrier, Akasa Air, has issued an advisory for passengers, detailing the impact on flights.
Passengers affected by the closure are assured a full refund on cancellations or the flexibility to rebook an alternative flight at no additional cost. For more detailed information regarding affected flights, passengers are encouraged to visit the airline’s website or click here.
#TravelUpdate: Due to the Indian Air Force's aerial display in Mumbai, both the runways at Mumbai airport will remain closed for operations between 12:00 hrs and 13:00 hrs from 12th to 14th Jan 2024.
In case your flight is impacted due to the above, you may request for a full…— Akasa Air (@AkasaAir) January 11, 2024Advertisement
IAF’s Outreach Program Takes Center Stage
Beyond the inconvenience to air travellers, the IAF’s outreach program promises to be a captivating experience for the local community. The event will feature aerobatic displays by the renowned Suryakiran Aerobatic Display Team (SKAT) and the ‘Sarang’ Helicopter display team.
Various aerial activities, including a flypast and low-level aerobatic display by the Su-30 MKI, as well as freefall and parachute displays by the ‘Akashganga’ team and the participation of the C-130 aircraft, will leave spectators in awe.
Conclusion
As Mumbai Airport temporarily halts its bustling flight operations, residents and visitors are invited to witness an unprecedented showcase of aviation skills and prowess by the Indian Air Force, creating memories that will linger long after the skies have cleared.
Follow and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Google News for the latest travel news and updates!