Tuesday, March 18, 2025
Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL), a subsidiary of Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL), which manages Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), is taking a major step towards improving passenger services and ensuring a smoother travel experience. In a recent proposal to the Airport Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA), MIAL has recommended the introduction of a User Development Fee (UDF) of INR 325 for domestic departures and INR 650 for international departures. These fees will help fund infrastructure upgrades and technology improvements at the airport.
To minimize the impact on passengers, MIAL has also suggested a reduction of about 35% in airline landing and parking fees. This adjustment is aimed at balancing the need for airport development with the goal of keeping airfares competitive. Airlines are expected to benefit from these changes, as it will allow them to manage operating costs more effectively, potentially lowering ticket prices for passengers.
Currently, the Yield Per Passenger (YPP) at CSMIA is INR 285. The proposal to AERA suggests increasing the YPP to approximately INR 332, which reflects an 18% rise, in accordance with the Consultation Paper issued by AERA on March 10, 2025.
MIAL Aims to Boost Mumbai’s Role as a Premier Global Aviation Hub
Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL) is set to fortify Mumbai’s standing as a top global aviation hub over the next five years. With an investment of INR 10,000 crore in airport infrastructure, MIAL anticipates generating a total revenue of INR 7,600 crore from an expected 229 million passengers. This plan ensures a well-balanced approach to revenue growth. The proposed tariff structure strategically revises the revenue mix, raising the User Development Fee (UDF) while lowering landing and parking charges by 35%. This adjustment aligns with other prominent airports in India, enhancing revenue stability and improving the passenger experience. As a result, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) will remain a competitive and appealing destination for travelers.
MIAL is dedicated to continuously enhancing passenger convenience, operational efficiency, and the long-term viability of this iconic Indian airport. Notable initiatives include the Domestic-to-Domestic Transfer Facility at Terminal 2, the new Taxiway Z to boost on-time performance, eGate implementation to manage terminal congestion, free inter-terminal coach transfers, and FASTag-enabled parking. These advancements reflect MIAL’s commitment to passenger-centric improvements. The proposed infrastructure changes will expedite the airport’s transformation, ensuring it meets the evolving needs of future air travel.
Investing in the Future of Travel
To create an advanced airport experience, CSMIA is launching several transformative projects:
- Terminal 1 Redevelopment – A complete overhaul of Terminal 1 will enhance structural integrity, capacity, and streamline travel for the aging Terminals 1A (over 30 years old) and 1B (over 60 years old). This upgrade will introduce cutting-edge infrastructure, expanded capacity, and improved passenger amenities, ensuring the terminal remains operationally sustainable for decades.
- Capacity Expansion & Digitalization – Terminal 2 (T2) will incorporate state-of-the-art technology, such as self-baggage drop systems, CTIX hand baggage screening, and full-body scanners, to optimize security checks and enhance passenger flow.
- Airside Enhancements – Airside infrastructure improvements will include runway maintenance and upgrades to aprons and taxiways, facilitating smoother aircraft movements and more efficient flight operations.
- Smart Passenger Technology – CSMIA is embracing next-gen digital solutions such as E-gates (DigiYatra initiative), FTI-TTP, and IoT-powered innovations for seamless and secure travel.
- Sustainability Initiatives – The airport is focusing on sustainability with a shift toward electric vehicles, energy-efficient operations, water conservation, and a commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2029.
MIAL is unwavering in its goal to maintain Mumbai’s status as a primary gateway to India. The revised charging structure aligns with global best practices and supports MIAL’s long-term vision of providing an unparalleled airport experience, prioritizing efficiency, comfort, and sustainability.
The Overview
MIAL has, up until now, refrained from imposing a domestic passenger UDF. Despite this, the organization has made significant strides, including:
- Converting 54 conventional vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs), adding 47 new EVs, and announcing plans to introduce 60 additional EVs.
- Conducting regular runway maintenance before and after the monsoon season, with notable projects such as the resurfacing of secondary runway 14/32 in 2024 and runway 09/27 in 2020.
- Implementing a pioneering Vertical Axis Wind Turbine and Solar Photovoltaic (PV) System.
These initiatives, alongside many others, underscore MIAL’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and operational excellence.
