Adani Airports plans to redevelop Terminal 1 at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), increasing its annual passenger-handling capacity by around 33%, from 15 million to 20 million passengers.
The phased modernisation will be facilitated by shifting selected flight operations of IndiGo and Air India to Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA). According to Adani Airports, the move will create room for essential safety upgrades, improved passenger facilities and modernised terminal infrastructure.
In its media briefing note, the airport operator stated, “The planned transfer of around 3.6 million passengers—accounting for approximately 70% of the traffic targeted for relocation in the first phase—will create the necessary headroom for the phased redevelopment of CSMIA’s Terminal 1.”
The initial phase involves relocating approximately five million passengers to Navi Mumbai. The upgraded terminal is expected to offer enhanced safety, digital services and additional capacity, supporting airline expansion and Mumbai’s long-term connectivity requirements.
The briefing note added, “The redevelopment of CSMIA’s Terminal 1 will create a safer, modernised and digitally enabled facility, increasing its annual passenger-handling capacity by approximately 33%—from 15 million to 20 million,”
The agreement follows nearly 18 months of discussions between the airport operator and airlines to coordinate the transition. Adani Airports said IndiGo and Air India’s decision to move some operations demonstrates confidence in NMIA’s infrastructure and readiness.
Connectivity to the new airport is also expected to improve through three bridges—SBR-9, BR-4 and BR-5—constructed by CIDCO across Panvel Creek and the Gadhi River. These structures will strengthen links with Atal Setu, Ulwe Coastal Road, Amra Marg and NH-4B.
The operator believes the two airports could establish Mumbai as a dual-airport gateway, increasing international connectivity and attracting transfer traffic. NMIA’s Terminal 1 is designed for 20 million passengers annually, with future expansion planned to reach 90 million.
Adani Airports clarified that only 9% of CSMIA’s annual passenger traffic of 55 million will be temporarily shifted during redevelopment, while the remaining 91% will continue using Mumbai Airport. Airlines’ historical slots are expected to be restored once the work is completed.
Source: ANI
