Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) has once again secured its place among the world’s top 10 international airports, according to the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2025. This marks the third year in a row that Mumbai Airport has achieved this honor, making it the only Indian airport to do so as of July 23, 2025. The recognition comes at a time of major changes and upgrades at the airport, affecting millions of travelers, airlines, and the broader aviation industry in India.
Mumbai Airport’s Global Ranking and What It Means
In the 2025 Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport ranked 9th globally, earning a reader score of 84.23. The survey, which included nearly 180,000 readers and over 650,000 votes, placed Mumbai Airport among the world’s best, just behind major international hubs like Istanbul Airport, Singapore Changi Airport, and Hamad International Airport in Doha. Mumbai Airport’s consistent ranking highlights its growing reputation for efficiency, passenger comfort, and innovation.
This achievement is significant not only for the airport itself but also for India’s aviation sector. As the only Indian airport in the top 10, CSMIA sets a benchmark for quality and service in the region. The airport handled 55.12 million passengers in the financial year 2024-25, with nearly 1,000 air traffic movements daily. This makes it the world’s busiest single-runway airport and India’s second busiest overall.
Why Mumbai Airport Stands Out
Several factors contribute to the airport’s high ranking:
- Direct connectivity to 54 international and 67 domestic destinations served by 51 international and 7 domestic airlines.
- Strong focus on passenger experience, with ongoing upgrades and digital innovations.
- Recognition for hospitality, digitization, and seamless travel, as reflected in passenger feedback and industry awards.
According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, Mumbai Airport’s ability to maintain its position among the world’s best, despite space and runway limitations, is a result of strategic investments and a commitment to operational excellence.
Recent Changes Affecting Passengers and Airlines
Travelers passing through Mumbai Airport will notice several important changes, especially related to fees and facilities. The Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA) approved a User Development Fee (UDF) increase effective May 16, 2025. The new fees are:
- Domestic departures: +₹175
- International departures: +₹615
- Domestic arrivals: +₹75
- International arrivals: +₹260
These fees are unique among Indian airports and are expected to generate ₹10,000 crore over five years. The funds will support a major capital expenditure plan, including:
- Overhaul of Terminal 1
- Digital modernization of Terminal 2
- Introduction of smart passenger technologies
- Sustainability initiatives targeting net-zero emissions by 2029
While the UDF increase means higher costs for passengers, airlines benefit from reduced landing and parking charges. This helps keep ticket prices competitive, balancing the impact of the fee hike.
Terminal 1 Redevelopment: What’s Changing?
A major redevelopment of Terminal 1 is scheduled to begin in November 2025. The project aims to increase the terminal’s capacity by 42%, allowing it to handle up to 20 million passengers annually by 2028-29. Key features of the redevelopment include:
| Country/Type | Visa Category | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| India | User Development Fee (UDF) increase | effective May 16, 2025 |
| India | Terminal 1 redevelopment | begins November 2025 |
| India | Terminal 1 capacity increase | completion by 2028-29 |
| India | Cargo operations suspension | effective August 16, 2025 |
- Demolition and phased reconstruction to minimize disruption for travelers
- Integration with a Multi-Modal Transit Hub (MMTH), providing direct access to metro, rail, and bus services
- Biophilic, sustainable design with advanced cooling, electrical, and baggage systems
- Implementation of DigiYatra, self-baggage drop, and e-Gates for faster, smoother passenger flow
These upgrades are designed to make travel easier and more comfortable, with a strong focus on sustainability and digital transformation.
Temporary Changes to Cargo and Private Flights
Starting August 16, 2025, Mumbai Airport will temporarily suspend freighter (cargo) operations and move private and charter flights to the new Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA). This shift is necessary to allow for airside upgrades and the construction of new taxiways at CSMIA. The move is part of a broader plan to modernize airport infrastructure and coordinate with NMIA’s operational launch in summer 2025.
For freight operators and private aviation clients, this means adjusting logistics and schedules to use the new airport facilities. While this may cause some short-term inconvenience, the long-term goal is to improve efficiency and capacity for all types of flights in the Mumbai region.
Who Runs Mumbai Airport?
Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL) operates CSMIA. MIAL is a joint venture between Adani Airport Holdings Limited (74%) and the Airports Authority of India (26%). The Adani Group, India’s largest private airport operator, leads the airport’s ongoing transformation.
A spokesperson for CSMIA recently stated, “Our commitment to innovation, digitization, and world-class passenger experience has been validated by these prestigious awards. We will continue to invest in making Mumbai Airport a global leader.”
Awards and Recognition
Mumbai Airport’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. In addition to its top 10 global ranking, CSMIA has received several major awards:
- Level 5 Airport Customer Experience Accreditation from Airports Council International (ACI), making it the first in India and third globally to achieve this status.
- Best Airport Over 40 Million Passengers in Asia-Pacific (ACI) for the eighth year in a row as of March 2025.
- Praise for hospitality, digitization, and immersive amenities from both industry experts and travelers.
These honors reflect the airport’s focus on providing a seamless, enjoyable experience for all passengers.
How These Changes Affect Travelers
For passengers, the most immediate impact is the increase in UDF fees for both arrivals and departures. While this means paying more, the extra funds are being used to upgrade facilities, improve digital services, and support sustainability projects.
Travelers can expect:
- Shorter wait times thanks to new biometric gates and self-service kiosks
- Easier check-in and baggage drop with digital and automated systems
- Better connections to public transport through the new Multi-Modal Transit Hub
- More comfortable and eco-friendly terminals with modern amenities
For those flying cargo or using private jets, the temporary move to Navi Mumbai International Airport may require some adjustments, but it is part of a larger plan to improve air traffic management and infrastructure in the region.
Background: Mumbai Airport’s Journey to the Top
Mumbai Airport’s rise to global prominence did not happen overnight. Since 2023, CSMIA has consistently ranked among the world’s best airports, thanks to ongoing investment in infrastructure, technology, and customer service.
The airport’s unique cross-runway layout and limited space have forced management to focus on efficiency and innovation. By making smart use of technology and prioritizing the passenger experience, CSMIA has managed to handle growing traffic without major delays or disruptions.
India’s aviation sector is growing rapidly, and Mumbai Airport is at the forefront of this expansion. The airport’s success serves as a model for other airports in the country and the region.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Mumbai Airport?
The future holds several major developments for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport:
- Terminal 1 Redevelopment: Construction will run from November 2025 through 2028-29, with phased increases in capacity and new amenities for travelers.
- Sustainability Initiatives: The airport is targeting net-zero emissions by 2029, with plans for electrification and green infrastructure.
- Integration with Navi Mumbai International Airport: Coordination between the two airports will help manage regional air traffic and improve overall efficiency.
- Continued Digital Transformation: Expansion of biometric and paperless travel systems, more automation, and better passenger services are on the way.
These changes are designed to keep Mumbai Airport at the cutting edge of global aviation, offering a world-class experience for all travelers.
Expert and Industry Perspectives
Industry analysts point out that Mumbai Airport’s ability to maintain high rankings, even with space and runway constraints, is a testament to its strategic planning and operational skill. “CSMIA’s focus on digital innovation and passenger comfort has set it apart from other airports in the region,” says one analyst.
Passenger feedback, as reflected in the Travel + Leisure survey, consistently praises the airport’s hospitality, amenities, and smooth travel experience. Airlines also benefit from the airport’s efforts, with reduced landing and parking charges helping to keep costs down.
Key Numbers at a Glance (2025)
- Reader score: 84.23 (Travel + Leisure 2025)
- Annual passengers: 55.12 million (FY 2024-25)
- Daily air traffic movements: ~1,000
- Direct destinations: 54 international, 67 domestic
- UDF (from May 16, 2025): ₹175 (domestic departure), ₹615 (international departure), ₹75 (domestic arrival), ₹260 (international arrival)
- Planned capital expenditure: ₹10,000 crore (2025–2029)
- Terminal 1 new capacity: 20 million passengers/year by 2028-29
Practical Guidance for Travelers and Stakeholders
If you are planning to travel through Mumbai Airport in the coming years, here are some practical tips:
- Check for updated UDF fees when booking your tickets, as these will be included in your fare.
- Allow extra time for check-in and security during major construction phases, especially at Terminal 1.
- Use digital services like DigiYatra and self-baggage drop to speed up your journey.
- Stay informed about changes to cargo and private flight operations if you are a freight operator or private aviation client.
For more information about Mumbai Airport’s facilities, services, and ongoing projects, you can visit the official Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL) website.
Broader Implications for India’s Aviation Sector
Mumbai Airport’s achievements have a ripple effect across India’s aviation industry. By setting high standards for service, technology, and sustainability, CSMIA encourages other airports to invest in similar improvements. The airport’s focus on digital transformation and green initiatives aligns with global trends and positions India as a leader in modern aviation.
The integration of Mumbai Airport with the new Navi Mumbai International Airport is expected to ease congestion, improve air traffic management, and support the region’s economic growth. As passenger numbers continue to rise, these investments will help ensure that India’s airports can handle future demand while maintaining high levels of service and safety.
Conclusion: Mumbai Airport as a Model for the Future
As of July 23, 2025, Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport stands as a global leader in airport excellence. Its continued presence in the world’s top 10, major infrastructure investments, and focus on sustainability and digital transformation make it a benchmark for the future of aviation in India and around the world.
Travelers, airlines, and industry stakeholders can look forward to even more improvements in the years ahead, as Mumbai Airport continues to raise the bar for quality, efficiency, and passenger satisfaction. For official updates on airport regulations and policies, travelers can refer to the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA) website.
Mumbai Airport’s journey shows how strategic planning, investment in technology, and a commitment to customer service can transform an airport into a world-class hub. As India’s aviation sector grows, CSMIA’s example will inspire continued progress and innovation across the country.
Learn Today
User Development Fee (UDF) → A passenger fee charged to fund airport development and infrastructure projects.
Multi-Modal Transit Hub (MMTH) → A transport center integrating metro, rail, and bus services for passenger convenience.
DigiYatra → Digital biometric system enabling paperless, faster passenger processing through automated gates.
Landing and Parking Charges → Fees airlines pay for using airport runways and parking facilities.
Net-zero emissions → Balancing emitted greenhouse gases with removal actions, aiming for zero net environmental impact.
This Article in a Nutshell
Mumbai Airport maintains top 10 global ranking for the third year, driven by innovation, sustainability, and major upgrades. New user fees fund Terminal 1 redevelopment and digital enhancements. Temporary cargo shifts to Navi Mumbai Airport improve regional operations. This airport sets a global standard blending technology, passenger experience, and environmental goals.
— By VisaVerge.com
