Air travelers utilizing Mumbai’s aviation gateway will soon need to double-check their boarding passes as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) undergoes a significant operational terminal restructuring. Beginning August 1, 2026, Akasa Air will consolidate all of its flight operations exclusively at Terminal 2. Meanwhile, Air India Express is scheduled to transition its domestic flight operations back to Terminal 1 starting October 1, 2026.
This major operational realignment forms part of a strategic rationalization program managed by airport authorities. The systematic reallocation of terminal space aims to optimize passenger throughput, streamline terminal capacity, and align operations as the broader Mumbai metropolitan region prepares for its multi-airport future alongside the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport.
Akasa Air Consolidates Operations at Terminal 2
Akasa Air has formally announced that effective August 1, 2026, all of its domestic and international flight services originating from or arriving in Mumbai will operate through Terminal 2.
Since initiating commercial flights in August 2022, Mumbai has served as Akasa Air’s primary operational base. The carrier presently serves 36 total destinations from the city, including 29 domestic and 7 international routes. Airline leadership confirmed that centralizing operations under Terminal 2 will simplify connecting itineraries for passengers transferring onto the carrier’s expanding international network.
To prevent travel disruptions, Akasa Air is actively notifying passengers through direct digital notifications, flight updates, and customer support channels. Travelers flying with the airline are advised to verify terminal details prior to departure and complete web check-in to ensure a seamless transit through the airport.
Air India Express Domestic Operations Move to Terminal 1
Following Akasa Air’s transition, Air India Express will move its domestic flight network from Terminal 2 to Terminal 1, effective October 1, 2026.
Mumbai has developed into a critical hub for Air India Express following the integration of AirAsia India and the broader realignment of domestic flight routes under its parent organization. The operational transition back to Terminal 1 allows the carrier to optimize space utilization across the airport ecosystem while supporting high-frequency domestic routes.
Strategic Infrastructure Rationalization at CSMIA
The ongoing reshuffle reflects the evolution of Mumbai’s dual-terminal setup. For years, CSMIA has divided domestic passenger traffic between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 historically catered to domestic low-cost carriers, while Terminal 2 handled all international departures along with full-service domestic carriers.
With the consolidation of full-service carriers operating out of Terminal 2, terminal space has been systematically reassessed. The current terminal realignments are structured to balance passenger density across both airport facilities while optimizing infrastructure readiness as the aviation sector expands.
Essential Passenger Advisory for Mumbai Travelers
Airport authorities and participating airlines strongly advise all passengers traveling through Mumbai during the transition period to adhere to the following travel guidelines:
Verify Flight Itineraries: Double-check terminal designations printed on e-tickets and boarding passes before traveling to the airport.
Update Contact Details: Ensure mobile contact numbers and email addresses are correctly listed in booking records to receive real-time SMS and email alerts.
Utilize Digital Check-In: Complete web or mobile check-in 24 to 48 hours prior to departure to minimize wait times at airport entry gates.
Plan Transfer Time: Passengers holding separate tickets across different terminals should account for transfer times between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.
As the aviation ecosystem across the Mumbai metropolitan area continues to expand, these strategic terminal adjustments will help manage passenger growth, optimize terminal throughput, and elevate the overall travel experience for millions of domestic and international tourists.
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