Mumbai Airport: Efficient Check-In Strategies For A Smooth Departure

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) in Mumbai is the second busiest airport in India and 35th busiest in the world, with over 1000 flights operating from it each day. The airport has two terminals: Terminal 1 (domestic) and Terminal 2 (international and some domestic flights). CSMIA has introduced an Integrated Security Check Point, where all international and domestic passengers exiting through T2 receive common security clearance at Level 04. The airport offers self-service facilities for check-in and baggage drop, as well as assistance for passengers with disabilities or those requiring additional help.

Check-in counters for international and domestic flights

Mumbai International Airport, also known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, is located 22 km north of downtown Mumbai. The airport has two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, with check-in counters for both international and domestic flights located in Terminal 2.

For Air India flights, the check-in counters are located at aisle E for domestic flights and aisle F for international flights. Self-service facilities for check-in and baggage drop are also available at Row D in front of gates 2 and 3 in Terminal 2. These facilities can be used to select your seat, update your Maharaja Club ID, update your contact details, print your boarding pass and baggage tags, and drop off your baggage.

It is recommended to arrive at the airport with ample time before your flight. The minimum layover times at Mumbai International Airport are 1 hour for domestic-to-domestic connections, 1 hour and 30 minutes for domestic-to-international connections, and 2 hours for international-to-domestic connections.

To access the airport from the city, prepaid taxis and limos are available. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take advantage of the various services and amenities offered, including facilitation for passengers with disabilities, a children's play area, lounges, and free Wi-Fi throughout all passenger areas.

Transport options to the airport

Mumbai Airport (BOM), also known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, is located 22 km north of downtown Mumbai. There are several transport options to get to the airport from the city centre, including:

Taxi or Private Transfer

The quickest option is to take a taxi or a private transfer. However, be aware that there is often a lot of traffic in Mumbai. You can pre-book a private transfer service to and from the airport, which can save you the hassle of queuing for a taxi and negotiating rates. These services often include flight monitoring and complimentary wait time.

Bus

There are several bus options available to get to the airport from the city centre. The travel time can range from 25 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic.

Train

Mumbai Airport does not have a train station, but there are several options to get to the nearest train station. A metro line to the airport is currently under construction.

Rental Car

Renting a car at Mumbai Airport is another option to get to and from the airport and for moving around the city.

Moving between terminals

Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) is the second busiest airport in India, handling approximately 45 million passengers annually. The airport is divided across two terminals, Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 2 (T2), which are not physically connected. Therefore, transferring between the two terminals can take longer than expected.

For passengers with separate tickets for each flight, it is recommended to allow a minimum of 3 hours for a landside transfer between terminals. Due to potential traffic congestion and the distance between the terminals, it is advised to budget 3 to 4 hours for transfers.

The two terminals are located just three miles apart, but Mumbai's traffic can cause significant delays. The journey between terminals, which should normally take around 10 minutes, can become much longer.

There are two options for travelling between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. The first is to use the 24/7 shuttle bus service, which operates as a convenient and hassle-free inter-terminal coach. The second option is to take a taxi between the terminals. Prepaid taxis and services like Uber are readily available just outside the terminal buildings.

For passengers with checked bags, a minimum connection time of 1 hour is required at Terminal 2's international area. However, it is recommended to allow at least 2 hours to account for potential delays and long lines at security.

Airport facilities

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) has two terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 services domestic flights in three buildings: 1A, 1B, and 1C. Terminal 1A is the oldest and has poor facilities. International flights are handled by the newer Terminal 2, which has modern amenities and comfortable seating.

Check-in

The check-in counters for both international and domestic flights are located in Terminal 2. The counters are at aisle E for domestic flights and aisle F for international flights. Self-service facilities for check-in and baggage drop are available at Row D in front of gates 2 and 3 in Terminal 2.

Lounges

There are several lounges available at the airport, some of which can be accessed by economy class passengers for a fee. The Aviserv Lounge, located in the public area of the terminal (landside), on Level 2 (Arrivals Level), next to Gate A, offers sleeping pods, shower services, and dry cleaning services. The Loyalty Lounge is located on the Mezzanine Level, opposite Gate 14 and is open 24 hours.

Food and Beverage

There are plenty of eateries and shops throughout the airport, with a few open 24 hours. The Beer Cafe in Terminal 2’s pre-Security International Departures area (near Car Park) is open 24 hours.

Rest & Relaxation Zones

There are no dedicated sleeping areas, but travellers have reported that airside is more comfortable for resting, with more seating options than landside. Bed-like benches can be found in both terminals, with Terminal 2 offering a quieter atmosphere.

Hotels

There are hotels inside and near the airport. The Niranta Airport Transit Hotel & Lounge is located inside Terminal 2, with entrances on Levels 1 and 2. It offers amenities such as 24-hour dining, a full-service spa, and free WiFi. The Aviserv Lounge also offers sleeping pods for travellers. Hotels near the airport include the Sahara Star, The Orchid, Ibis Mumbai Airport, JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, and more.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

A Left Luggage facility is available in all terminals for up to 90 days of storage. Rates start at Rs.180 for a bag under 7kg and Rs.250 for a bag over 7kg for up to six hours of storage.

Medical Services

The airport offers 24/7 urgent and emergency medical care in specialised Medical Inspection (MI) rooms. There are doctors and paramedics on-site, as well as fully equipped ICU ambulances. Medical centres are located on the ground floor, opposite the MI Gate, near Boarding Gate 25, and near Check-in Island M, among other locations.

Prayer/Meditation Rooms

Prayer and meditation rooms are available in both the International and Domestic Departures areas. In the International Departures area, they can be found pre and post-immigration on Levels 3 and 4. In the Domestic Departures area, they are located post-security on Level 3.

Smoking Lounges

Smoking is permitted only in designated enclosed rooms/lounges. These can be found in the Arrivals Hall near Belt 5 in Terminal 1, between Gates 26 and 27 in Terminal 1C, and in the retail areas on Levels 3 and 4 of Terminal 2.

WiFi

Free WiFi is available throughout the airport. To access the WiFi, passengers need to select #Tatadocomo, launch an internet browser, select "Free WiFi", and enter their mobile number to receive a password via SMS.

Other Amenities

Other facilities at Mumbai Airport include baby care facilities, a children's play area, ATMs, currency exchange, information desks, baggage trolleys, luggage wrapping services, a pharmacy, a post office, shopping (including duty-free), and SIM card providers.

Things to do at the airport

Mumbai Airport, also known as Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, is India's second busiest airport. If you're wondering what to do while waiting for your flight, there are plenty of options to keep you entertained. Here are some things to do at the airport:

Unwind in an Airport Lounge

Relax or work in a quiet and comfortable environment. Airport lounges offer food, drinks, WiFi, TV, and other amenities for a single fee. Any traveller, regardless of airline or flight class, can pay to access these lounges. The Aviserv Lounge offers private sleep pods and shower facilities, while the Plaza Premium Lounges can be accessed with a pass from Indian Eagle.

Indulge in Delicious Food

Explore the diverse food scene at the airport. Treat yourself to traditional Indian cuisine, including vegetarian meals, kebabs, curries, desserts, and chai. For international flavours, you'll find Middle Eastern, European, and Asian options. Sample Indian and global brews at the Beer Cafe, or opt for familiar Western chains like Starbucks, Subway, Baker Street, and Burger King.

Shop Till You Drop

Get your retail therapy fix at the numerous shops near the airport. Whether you're hunting for souvenirs or just browsing, you'll find newsstands, pharmacies, convenience stores, and boutiques selling jewellery, sunglasses, and local specialties. Don't forget to check out the duty-free areas, especially in Terminal 2.

Pamper Yourself at a Spa

Rejuvenate and unwind at one of the spas located within specific lounges or as standalone options. Heaven on Earth, O2, and other spas in the Domestic Departures area of Terminals 1 and 2 offer a range of relaxing therapies, massages, and beautifying treatments.

Explore Art and Culture at JayaHe GVK Museum

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the airport by visiting the JayaHe GVK Museum, located within the airport. This cultural gem showcases over 5000 artifacts and artworks that define Indian culture and life from across the country. The moving walkway adds a unique dimension to your museum experience.

Keep Yourself Entertained

If you're travelling with children, take advantage of the children's play area at the airport. Additionally, the airport offers free WiFi access, so you can stay connected, catch up on your favourite shows, or play online games.

Frequently asked questions