Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport is set for a major transformation, with phased redevelopment of Terminal 1 scheduled to begin in January 2027. The changes will alter flight operations gradually, while Metro Line 3 is expected to provide an important alternative for passengers travelling between the airport’s terminals.
The Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL) has informed the civil aviation ministry that demolition of the northern section of Terminal 1-B is scheduled to begin on January 15, 2027. The entire terminal will not shut at once, as redevelopment will be carried out in phases.
The project is part of a wider effort to modernise Mumbai’s aviation infrastructure and accommodate rising passenger traffic. Refurbishment and other infrastructure works at T1 are also being planned.
Flights to Be Redistributed
As redevelopment progresses, flight operations from T1 are expected to be adjusted between Terminal 2 and Navi Mumbai International Airport. A significant portion of international flight movements is also expected to shift to Navi Mumbai from October 1, 2026.
However, passengers should not assume that all T1 flights will move to one terminal. The operating terminal will depend on individual airlines and services. Airline information currently lists Alliance Air and Star Air at T1, while IndiGo, Akasa Air and SpiceJet use T1 or T2 depending on the flight. Air India and Air India Express operate from T2.
Metro Line 3 Provides Airport Link
Mumbai Metro Line 3, or the Aqua Line, has stations serving both Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. The 33.5-km underground corridor connects Aarey JVLR with Cuffe Parade, passing through key areas including BKC, Santacruz, Bandra and south Mumbai.
The airport stations could prove particularly useful during the redevelopment as passengers may need to travel between terminals. Metro connectivity also provides an alternative to road transport, which can be affected by congestion.
According to Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation’s published information, the planned operating window for Line 3 is from 5 am to midnight, although current service timings may vary.
Passengers travelling during the redevelopment period are advised to verify their terminal directly with the airline before leaving for the airport. They should also allow additional time for check-in and security procedures and check the latest Metro timings when planning airport transfers.
The redevelopment of T1, expansion of Navi Mumbai airport operations and existing Metro connectivity together mark a significant shift in Mumbai’s aviation and transport network.
Source: News18
