Mumbai Airport is about to see major changes with the redevelopment of Terminal 1. Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL) has announced plans to phase out T1 operations, with redevelopment work scheduled to begin in January 2027.
However, the flight transition is still being worked out. The Civil Aviation Ministry has asked airport operator Adani Airports to defer the planned shift of international flights to Navi Mumbai while airlines and the operator discuss the next steps. Passengers should therefore check the latest airline notification before travelling through Mumbai Airport.
What Is Happening at Mumbai Airport Terminal 1?
MIAL plans to redevelop the ageing Terminal 1 in phases. The first stage focuses on the North Section of Terminal 1B, rather than shutting down all of Mumbai Airport.
The redevelopment covers about one-third of Terminal 1’s capacity, based on MIAL’s figures. At the airport level, around 91% of passengers are expected to continue using unaffected operations. The redevelopment is planned to increase T1’s capacity from about 15 million to 20 million passengers annually after completion. The airport operator says redevelopment work will begin in January 2027.
What Happens to Flights Using Terminal 1?
Airlines operating from Mumbai Airport T1 have been considering different options, including moving some services to Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA).
The situation is still developing. The government has asked for the planned international-flight shift to be deferred after airlines raised operational and commercial concerns. Reports indicate that discussions are continuing over how and when flights should be redistributed. Passengers should not assume that every T1 flight will automatically move to Navi Mumbai. For the latest information about your departure airport and terminal, check your airline’s notification.
Why Is Mumbai Airport Redeveloping Terminal 1?
Terminal 1 is ageing and has been under redevelopment discussions for several years. MIAL points to safety and the ageing facility as key reasons for redeveloping Terminal 1.
The project is also part of Mumbai’s larger airport development plans. Navi Mumbai International Airport now provides another airport within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, giving airlines an additional operating option during the redevelopment period.
What Should Passengers Check Before Flying to Mumbai Airport T1?
Don’t rely on an old booking confirmation when flying during the Terminal 1 changes. Check the latest flight details before you leave home.
- Open your airline app or check your latest SMS and email updates.
- Look at your booking and confirm the airport and terminal.
- Check the details again a day or two before your flight.
- Flying from Navi Mumbai International Airport? Leave extra time for the journey.
- Have a connection? Check whether your next flight leaves from the same airport.
- Save your airline’s customer service number in case you need to contact them.
Getting to Navi Mumbai Airport is also fairly straightforward. Buses, taxis, autorickshaws, and app-based cabs serve the airport. There is also an hourly free shuttle between Navi Mumbai International Airport and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai.
What Does This Mean for USA to India Travelers?
Flying from the USA to India through Mumbai? Take a close look at the airport on your ticket. Mumbai has two airports now, so don’t assume your flight will use the same one as before.
A domestic connection adds another thing to check. You could arrive at one airport and depart from the other, which means you’ll need to travel between them before your next flight.
So, check the arrival airport, departure airport, and connection time when planning your trip. This is important if you book flights from USA to India and a domestic India flight separately. For the best international flight deals check Tripbeam ahead of booking.
