Mumbai’s proposed reduction of international flight slots at Terminal 2 is being scrutinized after airlines and industry groups push back, while India’s Civil Aviation Ministry intervenes. Multiple reports say the ministry puts the plan on hold and asks stakeholders to work out an alternative transition approach rather than imposing a compulsory shift tied to Terminal 1 redevelopment.
Airlines oppose a plan to temporarily discontinue about 265 international departure slots (roughly a one-third cut) from late October, arguing they are not ready to relocate operations to Navi Mumbai International Airport. MIAL, the airport operator, had indicated airlines would need to either move to NMIA or face suspension of operations and set deadlines for airlines to nominate slots to be removed.
Across outlets, IATA calls for transparency and consultation between MIAL and carriers to protect international connectivity to the Mumbai metropolitan region. It also argues that any slot reductions or capacity transfers should be voluntary and operationally viable, while safeguarding airlines’ existing slot entitlements during the transition. Reporting also notes planned meetings among the ministry, the airport operator, and airlines to finalize a “win-win” transition plan and assess alternatives that reduce disruption for passengers and carriers.
