The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) in Mumbai is ranked as the 28th busiest airport in the world. It is also the second busiest Indian airport after the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. With summer approaching the Mumbai International Airport is expected to see an 8% increase in flight movements compared to last year. This signifies a significant increase in passenger traffic and expanded travel options for domestic and international destinations.

The new summer schedule will be effective from March 31 to October 26. It aims to cater to the growing demand for air travel. Passengers can expect an average of 951 daily flights at Mumbai Airport, compared to 882 in the previous summer. The increase will ensure over 6,657 weekly flight movements. This translates to a wider selection of flights and greater flexibility for travel planning.

Improved Domestic and International Connections

The schedule reflects an increased focus on popular domestic destinations like Delhi, Srinagar, Ayodhya, and Kolkata. These routes will experience a notable rise in weekly flights. Delhi will receive 27 additional flights, Srinagar will gain 28, Ayodhya will experience a 14-flight increase, and Kolkata will witness an additional 9 flights per week.

The international network also benefits from the expanded schedule. Airlines like Vistara will offer enhanced connectivity, including five weekly flights to Paris, this is welcoming news for those traveling from India to USA via France. Akasa Air joins the international operations with four weekly flights to Doha, which will give more options to those traveling on the USA-India route via the Middle East. Although aviation enthusiasts were expecting Air India to start offering direct flights to Seattle, Los Angeles and Dallas soon, this will most likely happen in the winter schedule. Notably, Air India has still not confirmed the route for its new US destinations but experts predict Mumbai would likely be on the list. 

Airline Contributing in Boosting Connectivity

Leading airlines like Air India, IndiGo, and Vistara are playing a pivotal role in boosting flight operations from Mumbai. These airlines are not just enhancing domestic connectivity but also boosting international flight offerings. Nonstop flights to Mumbai from New York will be available to make travel easier for people traveling from USA to India this summer. Direct flights from SFO to BOM and EWR to Mumbai will also be available by Air India. If you are traveling on any of these routes, ensure your Air India booking for economy class, premium economy class or business class is available. 

Mumbai Airport Addressing Congestion Concerns

While increased traffic signifies a positive outlook for the aviation industry, managing congestion remains a top priority. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has implemented slot restrictions to streamline operations and minimize delays. These restrictions include limitations on peak-hour operations to optimize air traffic flow. This led to many airlines delaying or canceling flights last month. 

The Ministry of Civil Aviation maintains its dedication to improving the air traffic situation at Mumbai. Recent initiatives have shown positive results in facilitating a smoother travel experience for passengers. These efforts, combined with the expanded summer schedule, position Mumbai International Airport to be a vital hub for domestic and international travel throughout the season.

As Mumbai International Airport prepares for the summer surge in flight movements, passengers can look forward to enhanced connectivity, expanded destination options, and a seamless travel experience. The proactive measures taken by regulatory authorities demonstrate their dedication to meeting India’s increasing demand for air travel.

You can book your flights to Mumbai from USA with Indian Eagle. It is the most reliable travel partner for the Indian diaspora in the US for 15+ years now. You can expect a seamless journey with its 24/7 customer support. So, why wait? Book your Indian Eagle tickets today and be part of that 8% increase in air traffic at Mumbai International Airport.

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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 an astounding 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

International and Domestic Connections

The two terminals at Mumbai airports are Terminal 1 & Terminal 2 {T(1), T(2)}. T1 caters to a limited number of domestic flights, while T2 primarily handles international flights. For international connections, if you already have your boarding pass and checked bags through to your final destination, a minimum of one hour is sufficient. In case of any delays such as congested airspace, or security check lines, you ought to allocate two hours. 

Once you land it is important to follow the signs for international transfer in order to reach the transit area. You can walk into any airline desk in the transit area to obtain a boarding pass. After completing the security clearance, you will enter the main departure lounge of T2. 

If you have separate tickets and your bags have not been checked, then the procedure will be different. It will be mandatory for you to clear the immigration, collect your bags, pass through customs, and then check-in for your next flight. It will be a time-consuming process, especially during peak hours; thereby, it is important to allow three hours for a landside transfer. 

Mumbai Airport has simplified domestic connections. It has a dedicated domestic transfer facility that helps in simplifying the entire process. Domestic flights are primarily operated from T1 by airlines like IndiGo and AirAsia India, while full-service carriers such as Air India and Vistara operate from T2. 

Terminal Transfers

Keep in mind that T1 and T2 are not connected by a passenger transit system. Therefore, commuting between the terminals requires taxis, or other Uber services, which are readily available at your disposal. The distance 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. 

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.

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Chaotic scenes unfolded as flight operations at Mumbai Airport were disrupted due to cyclone Biparjoy. It unleashed heavy rain and gusty winds, causing flight disruptions. Passengers anxiously waited for hours, and some flights were canceled or delayed due to the inclement weather. Also, runway 09/27 operations were shifted to another runway to cope with crosswinds.

Adverse weather conditions and runway closure have disrupted flight operations at Mumbai airport, causing delays and cancellations. Several airlines including Air India and Indigo have expressed regret for the inconvenience caused and assured efforts to minimize disruptions.

IndiGo, India’s largest airline, also acknowledged the frustration of flight delays and explained that schedule changes are made only under extreme circumstances. They requested passengers’ understanding during such uncontrollable situations.

Preparations by Mumbai International Airport for Cyclone Biparjoy and Monsoon

Flight operations at Mumbai Airport were affected yesterday due to cyclone Biparjoy. And with the monsoon season setting soon, Mumbai’s CSMIA assures the public of their preparedness and adherence to safety protocols. This is to avoid delays and cancellations of domestic and international flights due to rain. They remain vigilant, ready to take necessary actions to ensure smooth operations amid inclement weather conditions.

Furthermore, CSMIA proudly announces the successful completion of recarpeting the secondary runway, boosting operational flexibility and minimizing disruptions caused by crosswinds during monsoons. Their commitment to safety and efficient flight operations remains unwavering.

Cyclone Biparjoy Likely to Make Landfall in the Next 2 Days

Coastal districts in Maharashtra were put on a ‘thunderstorm’ alert by the weather office. Lightning, moderate rain, and winds of 30-40 kmph were expected in isolated areas of Ratnagiri, Raigad, Thane, Palghar, and Kolhapur. Precautions were advised by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

Cyclone Biparjoy, now an “extremely severe cyclonic storm,” is set to make landfall on the coasts of Gujarat and Pakistan on Thursday, 15th June. Kutch, Porbandar, Gir Somnath, Jamnagar, Morbi, and Devbhumi Dwarka districts are anticipated to experience heavy rainfall and winds up to 150 kmph during June 13-15. Also, airport operations at Gujarat airports might be disrupted in the coming days. 

Flight operations at Mumbai Airport are expected to be normal soon. If you are traveling through Mumbai and booked your flight tickets with Indian Eagle, you are advised to check your flight status. You can also reach out to the Indian Eagle customer support team for assistance with your queries.

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Mumbai Airport or as it is named “Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport” is an important international gateway to India. It is the second busiest airport in India after Delhi Airport. Mumbai Airport was formerly called Sahar International Airport due to its location in the suburbs of Sahar village and Santacruz in Andheri. It was later renamed in honor of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The airport is located 28 kilometers north of Central Mumbai and 8 kilometers north of Mumbai downtown.

Quick Information about Mumbai Airport

• Name: Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport
• IATA Code: BOM
• Year of Establishment: 1942
• Address: Sahar, Andheri East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400029
• Terminals: 2
• Runways: 2
• Passenger traffic in 2021-22: 21 million

Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport Terminals

Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai, Maharashtra has two main terminals – Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 which are further subdivided into levels. 

Terminal 1 (Domestic)

Chhatrapati Shivaji Airport Terminal 1 is located at Santacruz. It originally had three sub-terminals 1A, 1B, and 1C.

• Terminal 1A: The oldest terminal, 1 A was shut down in 2016.
• Terminal 1B: It is used for domestic flights (arrivals and departures) such as IndiGo, SpiceJet, and GoAir.
• Terminal 1C: It had 6 boarding bridges and acted as a connecting terminal between 1A and 1B. It served as a boarding-only facility for all airlines.  Level 1 has the airport operator, Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL). 

Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL), the operator of the airport, renamed Terminal 1B to Terminal 1 in 2017, after the closure of terminal 1A. 

Terminal 2 (International)

Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport Terminal 2, located at Sahar, serves all international arrivals and departures. Additionally, some Mumbai Airport departures by domestic airlines like Air India, Vistara, and Jet Airways take place at this terminal. Book last-minute flights from Mumbai with any of these airlines and you will make an entry at Terminal 2 of Chhatrapati Shivaji International airport.

Terminal 2 operates at four different levels:

• Level 1 dedicated to Transport
• Level 2 dedicated to Arrivals
• Level 3 dedicated to Domestic Departures
• Level 4 dedicated to International Departures

Transportation Facilities at Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport

Inter-Terminal Transfer

Both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 share the same airside but are located at a distance of 5 kilometers. Free coach service is offered to passengers for transfer from one terminal to another

Connectivity to the city

Buses: Passengers can get local buses from Terminal 1 (Domestic) and Terminal 2 (International) for nearby railway stations Andheri and Vile Parle.

Train: It is the fastest and most popular way of communication in Mumbai. There are three railway lines operating throughout the city – Western, Harbor Lines, and Central. The nearest railway station for passengers at Mumbai Airport Arrivals (Domestic Terminal 1) is Vile Parle in Santacruz while the International Terminal 2 is Andheri in Sahar. One can reach the convenient stations through a taxi or bus.

Taxi: If you are looking for an easy direct transfer to the city of Mumbai, taking a prepaid taxi is a better option instead of the metered taxis as the drivers might trick you with meter readings by taking the longer route to the destination. A reasonable cost for a pre-paid taxi should be around 500-700 INR. Do not pay more than that. It will take you to the main hub Colaba.

Auto Rickshaw: Passengers can get auto rickshaws from Terminal 1 but they only have the authorization to run up to specific areas – Central suburbs beyond Sion and western suburbs past Bandra.

 Also Read: Unique Things to do in Mumbai

Passenger Services at Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport

Money and Communications: Several ATMs are installed throughout the Mumbai Airport in both domestic and international Terminals. Passengers can find currency exchange counters at various locations such as Centrum in Terminal 1 arrivals and Terminal 2 Arrivals and departures, Akbar Travels in Domestic Transfers level 2, Level 4 passenger holding area and check-in, SBI and VKC in Level 2 Arrivals.

Luggage: There are left luggage and lost & found services at both terminals. Passengers also get the benefit of luggage wrapping services by TravelProtect at Terminal 2 – close to check-in counters F-gate 4, N-gate 6, B-gate 2, and J-gate 5. For a more exact idea, refer to the Mumbai Airport map. 

Medical Facilities: Passengers traveling with patients or in need of immediate medical assistance are offered emergency medical care facilities in the medical rooms at Mumbai International Airport. Medical inspection centers are available at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.

Conference and business: Both terminals have a business center and executive lounges in the Mumbai Airport Departures area. Passengers can also receive conference facilities at Leela Kempinski Hotel located close to the airport.

Airport Lounges: Terminal 2 of Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport is home to three lounges – GVK Lounge (for first and business class passengers), Loyalty Lounge, and Pranaam Lounge. Passengers can relax at these lounges and enjoy unlimited access to food and beverages.  

Childcare facilities: There are childcare rooms available for travelers with kids at both domestic and international Terminals. Have a better idea about the location by viewing a Mumbai Airport video online. You can also seek assistance from the staff at the information desk.

Parking: Mumbai Airport has designated parking spaces at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. The parking facility at Terminal 1 can accommodate up to 750 cars and the one at T2 provides enough space for 1500 cars. The fare for parking is different for general and premium categories. General parking fare starts at INR 160 whereas premium parking prices begin at INR 250. 

Shopping: There are 3 duty-free stores for the passengers to shop at the airport. Moreover, Chhatrapati Shivaji Airport has a broad range of retail stores like Samsonite, Natraj Jewelers, J.K Fashions, Esbeda, Media Mart, Crystal Mirage, Da Milano, Landmark, Swarovski, Lilliput, Lotus Retail, William Penn, Croma, Pavers England, Gili, Hidesign, Ethos and Little India.

Also Read: Mumbai Travel Guide

Food and Drinks: You will find a wide array of food outlets (restaurants and fast-food centers) selling both eastern and western palettes. The popular outlets to try include Mumbai Se, Veg O’Vegee, Baskin-Robbins, Hot Dog, Grab n Go, Mad over Donuts, Dominos, Curry Kitchen, KFC, Pizza Hut, Burritos, and coffee bistros all around the Mumbai International Airport.

Wi-Fi: You can get access to free Wi-Fi throughout the airport.

Other Services: In addition to these facilities, passengers get the benefit of other services like a spa, smoking zone, post office, mobile charging, prayer room, showers, and pharmacy.

Also Read: Street food in Mumbai

–Travel Diary

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