Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (IATA: BOM, ICAO: VABB), also known as Mumbai Airport and previously called Sahar International Airport, is a major transport hub in India.

Welcoming almost 50 million passengers annually, Mumbai Airport is the second busiest in the country, second only to Delhi International Airport.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport is a convenient choice for overseas visitors traveling to the city of Mumbai or anywhere within the Mumbai Metropolitan Area.

This airport guide includes useful information including transportation options and departure lounge facilities to help passengers plan their trip.

COVID-19 Procedures at Mumbai Airport

International flights to CSMIA have resumed. All passengers must have a valid Indian visa, and 1 of the following COVID-19 documents:

• COVID-19 vaccination certificate (fully vaccinated)
• Negative COVID-19 PCR test result (taken within 72 hours)

The test on arrival policy has been removed, however passengers may be randomly tested.

There is also temperature screening in place. Travelers displaying a high temperature or other symptoms will be taken to a medical facility.

The following measures have also been put in place for the safety of passengers:

• Wearing of face masks inside the terminal buildings
• Hand sanitizer gel stations at strategic points
• Markings at luggage collection belts to ensure social distancing

Visitors from overseas do not have to self isolate now, however passengers should check all the latest Indian travel restrictions rules before departing for Mumbai.

How to Get to Mumbai Airport from the City Center

Mumbai Airport is well connected to the city center by public and private transportation. The distance between the airport and the city center is around 20 km.

• Suburban railway: the closest railway station to Terminal 1 is Vile Parle and the nearest to Terminal 2 is Andheri
• Bus: BEST bus routes 312 and 321 go to T1 and T2 respectively
• Autorickshaws: available at both terminals
• Taxi: there are counters at the arrival areas of both terminals
• Car rental: for visitors who wish to drive in India

Travelers should bear in mind that the journey length can vary widely depending on the volume of traffic. A taxi from the city center to the airport may take anywhere between 30 minutes and 2 hours.

Mumbai Airport Terminals 1 and 2

Mumbai airport has 2 terminals. Terminal 1, known locally as Santacruz airport, handles domestic flights and is divided into 3 buildings: 1A, 1B, and 1C.

Given the significant distance between cities in India, domestic flights are a good option for tourists who wish to see many areas of the country. For example, flying is a convenient option for anyone travelling to or from Mumbai from Delhi or the coastal state of Goa.

International flights depart from and arrive at Terminal 2. Although this terminal is mainly for overseas routes, some domestic flights now also operate out of T2. Passengers would check their flight information carefully before going to the airport.

How to get from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2 at Mumbai airport

Terminal 1 and 2 at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport are 5 km apart. The only way to get from one terminal to the other is by taxi. Passengers will find a designated inter-terminal transfer counter at both terminals.

The taxi journey takes around 20 minutes depending on traffic, passengers with connecting flights are reminded to factor this into their timing.

Airlines that operate out of Mumbai International Airport

Most flights to and from Mumbai are operated by one of the following carriers:

• IndiGo Airlines
• Air India
• Spicejet
• Go Air
• Vistara
• AirAsia India
• Alliance Air
• Air-India Express

The most popular domestic destinations are New Delhi, Bengaluru, and Chennai. Dubai, London, and Muscat are 3 of the most frequent international routes.

Services and Facilities at Mumbai International Airport

Both airport terminals have the following facilities and services for arriving and departing passengers:

• ATMs
• Baby changing facilities
• Currency exchange service
• Luggage storage
• Pharmacy
• Restaurants and cafés
• Selection of stores
• Smoking area

Free Wi-Fi is also available in the public and transit areas of both terminals.

Terminal 2 has some additional services, including a prayer room. Passengers using Terminal 2 can also download the Mumbai Airport application on their mobile phones for the latest flight information, shopping and dining guide, and airport map.

Passenger lounges at Mumbai Airport Terminal 1

There are 3 lounges in Terminal 1 where passengers can wait for their flight in comfortable surroundings:

Travel Club Lounge

This lounge is located on the third floor of T1, opposite Gate 44. There is a bar, hot/cold buffet-style restaurant, and comfortable seating.

Other facilities include designated quiet zones, spa services, and television. The Travel Club Lounge is open 24 hours a day.

Oasis Lounge

Oasis Lounge is in Terminal 1B and offers a buffet-style restaurant and bar. There are toys and games to keep the children entertained, plus a selection of newspapers and magazines.

The Oasis Lounge is open 24 hours a day.

Passenger lounges at Mumbai Airport Terminal 2

Terminal 2 has several lounges offering premium food and drink services, seating areas, and spa facilities.

Aviserv Lounge

Aviserv Lounge has sleeping pods available on a per-use system. There are showers, clothes steaming, and dining facilities.

Aviserv lounge is the best option for passengers with a long layover at Mumbai Airport who would like to get some sleep between flights.

GVK Lounge

GVK Lounge is open only to first-class and business passengers. It boasts hotel-like amenities including a spa, relaxation areas, and space to work in peaceful surroundings.

The Amex Lounge

The American Express Lounge is open to passengers with domestic flights departing from Terminal 2. The passenger’s American Express card is swiped to gain access: Centurion, Platinum, Corporate/Business Platinum, and Platinum Reserve cards are accepted.

Where can I sleep at Mumbai Airport?

As mentioned above, the sleeping pods at the Aviserv Lounge are convenient to get some rest between flights.

For a full night’s rest, passengers may prefer the comfort of a nearby hotel. Niranta Airport Transit Hotel & Lounge is located inside Terminal 2. Rooms can be booked in blocks of 4, 7, and 24 hours. There are several other hotels near the airport with shuttle services.

For a quick nap, there is padded flat seating in both terminals. It is generally considered safe to sleep at the airport, passengers should hide their valuables and secure their bags before taking a nap. It’s also advisable to sleep in a public zone rather than a secluded spot, especially if traveling alone.

Immigration Procedures at Mumbai Airport

After passing through security, travelers are directed toward immigration counters. All passengers undergo immigration checks on departure and arrival.

Foreign nationals are asked to present their passport, which will be stamped, and an Indian visa if required before moving onto immigration clearance.

Citizens of most countries can now apply for the Indian eVisa online: e-tourist, e-business, and e-medical visas are available. Travelers should check the requirements and apply for the relevant permit at least a week before departure.