The redevelopment will start with the phased demolition of the North Section of Terminal 1B, a nearly 60-year-old structure that has raised safety concerns in recent years.
According to AAHL, only about 5 million passengers annually, which is nearly 9 percent of Mumbai Airport’s total traffic of around 55 million passengers, will be temporarily affected during the first phase. The remaining 91 percent of passenger operations at Mumbai Airport will continue without disruption.
To minimise inconvenience, airlines will have the option to temporarily shift some operations to Navi Mumbai International Airport. AAHL has assured full support to airlines for a smooth transition of services.
AAHL CEO Arun Bansal said that only one-third of Terminal 1’s capacity is being demolished in the first phase to reduce passenger inconvenience and operational impact. He clarified that the movement of flights to Navi Mumbai Airport will be temporary and does not indicate a permanent transfer of traffic from Mumbai Airport.
Terminal 1 has long been identified as an ageing structure requiring extensive repairs. Temporary measures had been adopted over the years because there was no alternative airport facility available earlier. However, after the fire incident at Terminal 1 earlier this year and with Navi Mumbai Airport now operational, the redevelopment process can no longer be delayed.
AAHL stated that discussions regarding the future redevelopment of Terminal 1 have been ongoing with airlines since 2020. The plan was also presented before the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA) and incorporated into the approved tariff framework.
Officials emphasised that passenger safety remains the top priority and that delaying redevelopment could affect the safety and convenience of millions of travellers.
Once completed, the new Terminal 1 is expected to offer modern infrastructure, enhanced passenger facilities and a significantly higher handling capacity, strengthening Mumbai’s position as one of India’s busiest aviation hubs.
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