Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (BOM) is always packed with people. The financial capital of India attracts a multitude of airlines throughout the world, due to its strategic location. Most passengers traveling to India spend connection time at Mumbai Airport. This is as it is a vital international hub that millions of tourists and business travelers visit every year. In 2022 Mumbai International Airport welcomed over 40 million passengers, making it a gateway for both domestic & international travelers. 

Passengers throng to Mumbai from the USA, Middle East, Europe, Asia, and Africa; making it the most south-after destination. The airport currently caters to Air France, Ethiopia Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, Singapore, etc. 

It is certainly a daunting task to manage the bustling crowd; besides, managing the airport’s two terminals and ensuring seamless connectivity is a huge challenge for airport authorities. In this guide, we unveil the essential information and tips to optimize your connection time at Mumbai Airport.

Also Read: Restaurants near Mumbai Airport

Terminal 1 

Terminal 1 (T1) of Mumbai Airport, also referred to as Santacruz Airport, serves low-cost domestic flights. It has 11 passenger boarding bridges and was initially divided into three sub terminals: 1A, 1B, and 1C. Before it closed in 2016, Terminal 1A, which had opened in 1992, had been home to Air India, Kingfisher, and GoAir. Since Terminal 1A’s operations halted, Terminal 1B now referred to as Terminal 1 has been handling all domestic flights. Terminal 1C, which opened in 2010, served as a boarding-only facility that connected 1A and 1B. 

Terminal 2

At Mumbai Airport International Terminal 2 (T2) is an X-shaped building that accommodates both domestic and international travel. T2 has 192 check-in desks, 60 immigration counters for departures, 14 baggage carousels, and 76 immigration counters for arrivals. It spans 450,000 square meters over four levels. It has modern amenities such as layover accommodations, shops, lounges, and medical facilities. T2, which was built by Larsen & Toubro, is connected to the Western Express Highway and has easy access by the Sahar Elevated Access Road, which also ensures smooth travel. For the convenience of passengers, the terminal also has 42 travelators, 75 elevators, and 48 escalators.

Mumbai Airport Transit Between Terminals

T1 and T2 are not connected by a passenger transit system. So, the Mumbai Airport Terminal 2 to Terminal 1 transfer time takes around 25-30 minutes based on traffic. Commuting from both terminals requires taxis, or other Uber services, which are readily available at your disposal. The distance between Mumbai domestic and international airports is hardly three miles, but Mumbai traffic woes would significantly increase the travel time. To ensure a stress-free connection, allocate a minimum of three to four hours when transferring between terminals at Mumbai Airport. 

Also Read: Mumbai International Airport Limited Plans to Enhance Passenger Processing Capacity with AI-Enabled Cameras

Mumbai Airport’s Technological Leap

The innovative Digital Gateway program at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Aihttps://www.indianeagle.com/traveldiary/mumbai-international-airport-limited-plans-to-enhance-passenger-processing-capacity-with-ai-enabled-cameras/rport lets you experience travel in the future. With its 68 state-of-the-art eGates, biometric verification, and AI-driven security, it redefines efficiency and ease. The passenger experience is enhanced by AI/ML-enabled cameras and real-time information exchange. Meet “Digi Buddies” who help with self-service technology and are establishing a new standard for airport innovation worldwide. At T2, seamlessly process around 7,440 people per hour, increasing capacity by three times and elevating passenger dedication zones. Mumbai International Airport is a technological innovator that ensures an advanced travel experience.

Following these Steps will Ensure You Have a Smooth Journey:

• Plan in advance, and stay updated about the connected time at Mumbai Airport.
• Stay updated about flight schedules or any changes regarding flight delays etc. 
• Keep your necessary items, such as travel documents, medications, and chargers, easily accessible in your carry-on bag to avoid any delays or inconveniences during transfers.
• If there is an extended connection time between flights, then look up a lounge option to unwind. You will get comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, refreshments, and other amenities. 
• Be vigilant about peak hours Mumbai Airport experiences peak traffic during certain times of the day. Plan your connection accordingly, considering potential delays caused by heavy passenger volumes.
• In crux, by familiarizing with Mumbai Airport terminals, you can stay prepared for any eventualities, and plan your journey accordingly. 

Overall Airport Experience

Mumbai Airport’s Terminal 2 was totally refurbished in 2014, and it was certainly a refreshing sight. The new look is not only attractive; it has good ventilation and the lighting system in the terminal is pretty good. 

Apart from renovation, it offers all the amenities & facilities of international gateways, such as, dining, relaxing, and shopping. There’d been a steep rise in check-in desks & airbridges, which has given Mumbai airport a major boost. 

Mumbai Airport, with its operations and two terminals, presents unique challenges for travellers making connections. However, by understanding the terminals, allocating sufficient transfer time, and planning ahead, you can optimize your connection time at Mumbai airport and enjoy a seamless journey. So no matter if you have a domestic or international flight, you can travel hassle-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are T1 and T2 connected in Mumbai?

While both terminals share the same airside facilities, they are geographically separated on the city side. A dedicated free shuttle bus service is available for travelers with valid tickets.

2. How long does it take to transfer from T1 to T2 in Mumbai?

The transfer between T1 and T2 typically takes around 25-35 minutes by the airport shuttle bus, though it may vary depending on traffic and other circumstances.

3. How do I go from the Mumbai domestic terminal to the international terminal?

To transfer from the domestic Terminal 1 to the international Terminal 2, use the free airport shuttle bus service available for ticketed passengers, which runs regularly between the terminals.

4. What are Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 in Mumbai Airport?

Terminal 1 (T1) at Mumbai Airport handles domestic flights, while Terminal 2 (T2) serves both domestic and international flights, offering plenty of international services and modern amenities.

5. What amenities are available at Mumbai Airport’s Terminal 2?

Currency exchange, postal services, smoking places, baby care, and medical facilities are among the many convenience amenities that are easily available to terminal visitors.

6. How busy is Mumbai Airport, and when are the peak hours?

Mumbai Airport is one of the busiest in India, handling over 40 million passengers annually. Peak hours often occur early mornings and late evenings, so travelers should plan for possible delays during these times.

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As per the Mumbai Airport update, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) has taken a groundbreaking step by commissioning a state-of-the-art taxiway known as ‘Taxiway Z’. This strategic initiative serves as an extension of the existing ‘Taxiway P’, significantly enhancing air operational efficiency. By introducing Taxiway Z, CSMIA has become the pioneer in the Asian region, offering a flexible-use apron that allows seamless interchangeability between the taxiway and parking stand. This exceptional development is poised to revolutionize the airport’s performance, benefitting both passengers and airlines and reinforcing its commitment to innovation and operational excellence.

Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL) stated on Tuesday that the implementation of Taxiway Z enables a substantial reduction in total taxi time after landing while simultaneously minimizing the airport’s carbon footprint. By efficiently maneuvering aircraft on the ground, this innovative taxiway reduces the time taken for planes to reach their designated parking stands. The result is not only a drastic cut in taxi time but also a significant decrease in carbon emissions, contributing to a greener and more sustainable aviation industry.

The seamless transition between these two crucial components of the airside infrastructure optimizes space utilization and enhances overall efficiency. It provides the airport with unparalleled flexibility in managing aircraft movements. By reducing the entry and exit time of aircraft, the new taxiway optimizes the flow of traffic on the airside, expediting the movement of planes. 

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport has firmly established itself as a global leader in sustainable airport operations with the full operationalization of Taxiway Z. By embracing innovative infrastructure solutions, CSMIA not only demonstrates its commitment to environmental sustainability but also positions itself as a trailblazer in driving positive change within the industry. The successful implementation of Taxiway Z is a testament to the airport’s dedication to operational excellence and its relentless pursuit of setting new standards for the benefit of all stakeholders.

With the commissioning of the revolutionary Taxiway Z, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport has ushered in a new era of the aviation industry. This groundbreaking initiative significantly reduces taxi time, lowers carbon emissions, and enhances the airport’s overall operational performance. By offering a flexible-use apron, the airport sets a precedent in the Asian region, enabling seamless interchangeability between the taxiway and parking stand. As CSMIA continues to lead the way in innovation and operational excellence, it not only solidifies its position as a global leader but also inspires other airports to prioritize the ultimate passenger experience.

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