Case-by-Case Clearances to Boost Redevelopment Projects
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has issued a circular allowing for building height clearances on a case-by-case basis in areas affected by high-frequency transmitters, potentially benefiting stuck redevelopment projects in Mumbai’s Juhu area. The March 18, 2026, circular states that a regional committee will be formed to study zones, evaluate their implications on aviation safety, and formulate guidelines for permissible building heights.
Nuanced Approach to Building Height Clearances
According to Architect Manoj Daisaria, “The committee will adopt a more nuanced, plot-specific approach now rather than applying blanket restrictions.” This approach is expected to benefit around 50-60 redevelopment projects in the area, which were previously facing height restrictions due to the presence of high-frequency transmitters.
The restrictions had reduced permissible building heights, making redevelopment unviable for developers. Earlier, a uniform height of 57 metres above mean sea level (AMSL) was permitted within these areas; however, due to subsequent operational constraints, permissible heights were reduced to 43 m AMSL in certain zones and further down to 34 m AMSL in zones closer to critical areas.
Controlled Development and Aviation Safety
A property market source said, “Instead of blanket restriction, the new circular has allowed controlled development by clearly defining restricted zones and permitting conduct of operational impact analysis study.” The circular outlines steps for conducting and approving findings, including levels of hierarchy for approving additional building heights.
The move is expected to allow controlled urban development without compromising aviation safety, which is especially challenging in Mumbai with fully functional airports at Santacruz and Juhu, both within close proximity and within city limits.
