265 Flights Cancelled Starting October 25; Travelers Using Mumbai Airport, Take Note

Starting October 25, 265 weekly international flights operating from Mumbai Airport may be temporarily suspended. Space will be created at Terminal 2 for domestic flights to facilitate the redevelopment of Terminal 1.

Travelers flying internationally from Mumbai Airport may witness significant changes in flight operations towards the end of October. Plans have emerged to temporarily suspend approximately 265 weekly international flights due to preparations for the redevelopment of the airport’s Terminal 1. This change is scheduled to take effect on October 25.

This shift could impact both passengers flying to various countries from Mumbai and several airlines. Therefore, if you are planning to take an international flight from Mumbai in the near future, this information is crucial for you.

Operations to Change Due to Terminal 1 Redevelopment

Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL), the operator of Mumbai Airport, has informed 46 airlines about the proposed reduction in international flights. Currently, around 770 international flights operate weekly from Mumbai’s Terminal 2. Under the proposal, 265 of these flights could be temporarily removed.
The primary reason for this is the upcoming redevelopment of Terminal 1. Terminal 1 is primarily used for domestic flights, whereas international flights operate from Terminal 2.

Space Vacated at T2 to be Used for Domestic Flights

According to the plan, facilities becoming available at Terminal 2 following the removal of certain international flight slots will be utilized for domestic airlines. This measure is being taken to accommodate passengers shifting from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2. According to MIAL, preparations are underway to handle a traffic volume of approximately 5 million domestic passengers annually through this shift. To facilitate this, amenities such as check-in counters, baggage belts, and boarding gates will be made available to domestic operators.

Impact on IndiGo and Air India

The proposed reduction could affect several major airlines. Reports indicate that 74 of IndiGo’s 224 weekly international flights from Mumbai will be impacted. Similarly, there are plans to reduce 33 of Air India’s 100 weekly international services.

Additionally, Akasa Air (11 flights), Air India Express (7 flights), and SpiceJet (5 flights) may see reductions in their weekly international schedules. Reports also suggest that 10 weekly services each for Etihad Airways and Emirates will be affected.

Dispute Regarding Navi Mumbai Airport

Differences have emerged between airlines and the airport operator regarding the shifting of international flights from Mumbai Airport to Navi Mumbai Airport. Airlines have raised concerns about various practical issues, including demand and connectivity. IATA, the association representing international airlines, has also sought intervention from the Ministry of Civil Aviation regarding this process.

The association maintains that a clear, consensus-based plan involving all stakeholders—including the airlines—is essential for such a significant transition. The redevelopment of Terminal 1 is scheduled to begin in January 2027; consequently, further changes in flight operations between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai airports may be observed in the coming months.