Mumbai Airport’s Terminal 1 to undergo major overhaul

Mumbai: Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL) has unveiled plans for a significant redevelopment of Terminal 1 at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), aiming to boost the terminal’s capacity by 42%, a news report said.

Once completed by 2028-29, the revamped terminal will have the ability to handle 20 million passengers annually, aligning with the airport’s growth ambitions. The project will focus on sustainability and the integration of modern infrastructure.

Construction work will begin in November with the demolition of the current terminal building as part of phase 1. During the redevelopment, Terminal 2 and the soon-to-open Navi Mumbai International Airport, expected to start operations in 2025, will manage the increased passenger traffic, ensuring a seamless experience across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.

The upgraded Terminal 1 will feature a state-of-the-art passenger terminal designed primarily for domestic flights, with provisions for future international services. New infrastructure improvements will include advanced baggage handling systems, district cooling technology, and modernized electrical substations, enhancing operational efficiency. 

Additionally, the terminal will incorporate a multimodal transit hub, offering direct metro connectivity and underground bus stations, creating a seamless link between Mumbai’s air, rail, and road transport systems.

Jeet Adani, Director of Adani Airport Holdings Limited, which oversees the airport, emphasised the importance of smooth execution during the redevelopment. 

“Our team at CSMIA is working closely with all stakeholders to ensure minimal disruption to daily operations and the passenger experience. This redevelopment is about expanding capacity and future-proofing Mumbai’s position on the global aviation map. We are committed to maintaining the exceptional service our passengers expect.”

To minimise inconvenience, the redevelopment will be carried out in phases. Innovations like DigiYatra, self-baggage drop, and e-gates will be introduced to facilitate smooth passenger flow. Additionally, extra staff will be deployed during peak travel times, and airlines and stakeholders will receive advance notice to ensure uninterrupted operations.

CSMIA officials also revealed that the new Terminal 1 will be India’s first brownfield airport designed with biophilic principles, featuring indoor greenery, natural light, and spacious open areas. The terminal’s architecture, inspired by the fluid motion of ocean waves, is expected to set a new benchmark for sustainable airport design in the country.