Mumbai Airport T1 to Undergo Major Revamp to Handle 20 Million Passengers Annually
Mumbai’s Terminal 1 (T1), one of the busiest terminals serving domestic flights, is set for a major redevelopment as part of a vision to increase its passenger handling capacity by 42%. This transformation, announced by Adani Airport Holdings Ltd (AAHL), aims to accommodate 20 million passengers annually, a significant upgrade from the current capacity of 15 million. The project is slated to be completed by FY29, with passengers temporarily shifted to Terminal 2 and the newly inaugurated Navi Mumbai International Airport, which is expected to commence operations in May 2025.
The revamp of T1 is essential to meet the growing demand for air travel in Mumbai, one of India’s most populous cities and a major hub for domestic and international flights. The terminal currently caters to airlines such as Akasa Air, IndiGo, and SpiceJet, and serves as a vital link for passengers travelling within the country. However, with the increased demand for air travel, the need for modernisation and expansion has become increasingly urgent.
Jeet Adani, Director of Adani Airport Holdings, highlighted the importance of the redevelopment, stating, “This redevelopment is not just about expanding capacity—it is about future-proofing our city’s place on the global stage. Our priority remains delivering the exceptional service that passengers have come to expect.” The renovation plans for T1 focus not only on expanding capacity but also on introducing state-of-the-art infrastructure to ensure an efficient and comfortable experience for passengers. The new terminal will feature a modern baggage handling system, advanced security systems, and improved passenger flow management. Additionally, the redevelopment will include enhanced multi-modal transit options, making it easier for passengers to travel to and from the airport.
Sustainability will play a crucial role in the design of the upgraded terminal. As part of AAHL’s long-term vision, the airport aims to incorporate green practices and technologies to minimise its environmental footprint. This aligns with global trends in airport infrastructure, where sustainability is becoming a priority in the face of rising concerns about climate change and resource management. In the interim, as the redevelopment progresses, T1’s existing passenger traffic will be diverted to Terminal 2 and the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport. The latter, which is expected to begin operations in May 2025, will provide significant relief by sharing the burden of domestic flight operations, thereby enhancing the overall capacity and efficiency of Mumbai’s airport network.
The redevelopment of T1 will also provide a boost to the local economy by creating jobs and supporting the growth of the aviation and tourism sectors. Mumbai’s position as a key global aviation hub will be further cemented once the new terminal is operational, making it an attractive destination for both international business and leisure travellers. Officials are optimistic that the revamped T1 will transform Mumbai’s airport experience, improving passenger satisfaction and enabling the city to better handle future air traffic. The project reflects Mumbai’s ambition to enhance its infrastructure and maintain its competitive edge on the global stage. As the city continues to grow and evolve, this redevelopment of Terminal 1 marks a significant step towards modernising Mumbai’s aviation sector, ensuring it remains a world-class destination for air travel.
