Mumbai Airport is set for a major operational reshuffle from October 2026 as Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL) prepares to accommodate the phased redevelopment of Terminal 1.
Under the proposed plan, around 30% of international flights currently operating from Terminal 2 could be shifted to Navi Mumbai International Airport from October 1. In addition, nearly 30% of flights from Terminal 1 are proposed to move to Terminal 2. From October 25, around one-third of Terminal 1’s existing flights are expected to operate from Terminal 2.
Passengers with existing bookings have been advised to confirm their departure terminal with their respective airlines before travelling, as flight operations may change during the transition.
Terminal 1 redevelopment to begin in 2027
MIAL is reportedly planning to start redevelopment of the northern portion of Terminal 1B from January 15, 2027. The section currently handles approximately five million passengers annually.
Terminal 1, which is nearly eight decades old, is already undergoing redevelopment, with a portion of the facility demolished as part of the planned transformation.
Mumbai Airport’s two terminals currently handle about 950 flight movements every day. Terminal 1 has an annual passenger handling capacity of around 15 million, while Terminal 2 can accommodate approximately 40 million passengers.
Airlines face operational changes
IndiGo, SpiceJet, Alliance Air and Star Air currently operate from Terminal 1. Akasa Air moved its domestic operations to Terminal 2 in August as part of an operational realignment, according to MIAL.
The airport operator has informed the Civil Aviation Ministry about the proposed changes and initiated consultations with airlines. It has also asked carriers to coordinate with Navi Mumbai International Airport to ensure an orderly transition.
MIAL said the redistribution of flights is aimed at facilitating redevelopment while minimising disruption to passengers and airline operations.
“MIAL shall continue to engage closely with airlines, Navi Mumbai airport, government authorities, regulatory agencies and other relevant stakeholders to facilitate seamless implementation of the transition plan, maintain continuity of airline operations and minimise passenger inconvenience.”
With flight operations being redistributed between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai airports, travellers should check the latest terminal information provided by their airline before leaving for the airport.
Source: NewsX
