Several reports have circulated recently, claiming that Mumbai’s Terminal 1 (T1) at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) will shut down later this year for renovations. However, according to officials familiar with the matter, the reality is that while major redevelopment plans are in place, the process will be executed in stages to ensure minimal disruption to passengers.
On Tuesday, January 28, Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL), operated by Adani Airport Holdings Ltd (AAHL), confirmed that T1 will indeed be demolished and redeveloped. This ambitious project aims to increase passenger handling capacity, improving the overall travel experience at the airport.
Carefully planned phased construction to minimise disruption
The redevelopment is set to begin in November 2025. However, to ensure that daily operations are not severely impacted, the construction will be carried out in carefully planned stages, allowing the airport to manage traffic flow more efficiently.
During the renovation period, Terminal 2 (T2) as well as soon-to-open Navi Mumbai Airport will take on the additional traffic, effectively absorbing passengers who would typically use T1.
One of the key objectives of the redevelopment is to boost the airport’s capacity. Once the new T1 is completed, it will be capable of handling 20 million passengers annually, a significant 42% increase in capacity compared to its current limits. This expansion is part of MIAL’s ongoing efforts to meet the rising demand for air travel as Mumbai continues to grow as a major global aviation hub.
The extensive redevelopment project is expected to be completed by 2028-29. According to MIAL, the demolition of the existing T1 structure will be followed by the construction of the new terminal facility. The revamped T1 is expected to offer state-of-the-art amenities and improved infrastructure to better serve passengers.