Mumbai Airport: A Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors to India

Located in the heart of India’s bustling economic hub, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (Mumbai Airport) is one of the South Asian country’s most important air gateways. As the first port of call for many first-time visitors to India, knowing the airport’s details will make your trip smoother and easier.

1. General information about Mumbai International Airport

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) is the second largest airport in India (after Delhi airport), serving over 45 million passengers annually. Key airport information:

• Official name: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport
• IATA Code: BOM
• Location: About 25km north of Mumbai center

Mumbai Airport is the second largest airport in India. (source: Internet)

The airport is named after Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the great king and national hero of the state of Maharashtra, where Mumbai is located. Mumbai Airport serves as a major hub for major airlines such as Air India, Vistara, and IndiGo. The airport is also known for its impressive architectural design, unique art galleries, and highly regarded passenger experience, offering an exciting first glimpse into Indian culture.

2. Infrastructure and stations

Terminals and runways

Mumbai Airport has two main terminals serving passengers:

• Terminal 1: Mainly serves domestic flights of some low-cost airlines like IndiGo and Go First.
• Terminal 2: This is the larger, more modern terminal, serving both international and domestic flights for major airlines such as Air India and Vistara. Terminal 2 is particularly famous for its unique peacock-inspired architecture and is home to the largest public art collection in an Asian airport, with over 7,000 works.

The airport also has a separate terminal that serves private jet and non-scheduled flights.

The airport consists of two main passenger terminals. (Source: Internet)

Mumbai Airport has two runways, which optimizes aircraft handling and take-off:

• Main Runway 09/27: At 3,445m (11,302ft) long, it is the main runway and intersects the remaining runway just south of the terminal buildings.
• Runway 14/32: 2,925m (9,596ft) long, running between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.

With this scale, Mumbai airport is capable of efficiently serving all types of large aircraft and handle heavy flight traffic.

Outstanding facilities and services

Mumbai Airport is well equipped with amenities to ensure the comfort of travelers:

• Connect: Free Wi-Fi and mobile device charging areas are widely available.
• Shopping and dining: Duty-free shopping area with a variety of international brands. Rich culinary system, from traditional Indian dishes, vegetarian dishes, international dishes to fast food options.
• Rest and Relax: Luxurious lounges, relaxing spa services and on-site hotels such as Niranta Transit Hotel are ideal options for transit passengers or those needing a break.
• Financial Services: ATMs, currency exchange counters and VAT (GST) refund services are available to cater to the financial needs of international visitors.
• Special support: The airport also has a children's play area and provides disabled assistance, ensuring every passenger has a convenient experience.

The airport has lounges and hotels where passengers can rest. (Source: Internet)

3. How to get from Mumbai airport to the city center

Prepaid Taxi

Prepaid taxis are the most popular and safest option for first-time visitors to India. You can buy prepaid taxi tickets right at the counters at the railway station, which ensures a fair price and avoids being ripped off. The fare for prepaid taxis ranges from INR 500 - 600 per trip.

Alternatively, visitors can travel by metered taxi at a price of 625 - 700 INR/trip.

Passengers can purchase prepaid taxi tickets at the airport. (Source: Internet)

Ride-hailing apps (Uber, Ola)

These apps are very popular and convenient in Mumbai. You can easily book a car through the app and know the fare in advance.

Public bus

This is the most economical option but can be quite complicated for newcomers as the route system and usage can be confusing. Therefore, this is not recommended for first-time visitors to India.

If choosing to travel by bus, visitors can use the following bus routes:

• Bus routes: 312, 321, 308.
• Ticket price: Non-air-conditioned vehicles from 10 INR/ticket/one way for distance of 5 - 10km. Air-conditioned vehicles from 13 INR/ticket/one way for distance of 5 - 10km.
• Travel route:

• 312 (04:50 - 22:50): From Terminal 1 - Vile Parle East Railway Station - Andheri East Railway Station.
• 321 (No Night Run): From Terminal 2 - Vile Parle East Railway Station.
• 308 (05:10 - 22:10): From Terminal 2 - Andheri East Railway Station.

Bus is one of the options to travel from the airport to the city center. (Source: Internet)

Train

Trains are a great way to experience local life and get into the heart of Mumbai. The two suburban railway stations closest to the airport are Vile Parle and Andheri East. To use this mode of transport, you can take a bus or taxi from the airport to either of these stations, then catch a train into the heart of Mumbai.

4. Popular flight routes

Mumbai Airport is an important air connectivity hub, serving many routes to major cities of India such as Delhi, Bangalore, Kolkata, Chennai, etc.

In terms of international routes, Mumbai connects to hundreds of destinations globally, including major hubs like Dubai, Singapore, London, Doha, Bangkok, Frankfurt, etc.

From Vietnam, there are currently no direct flights to Mumbai. Travelers can fly to Mumbai via direct flights of Vietnam Airlines. Specific flight information:

*Note: Depending on the tourist season and weather, flight frequency may change flexibly. Ticket prices may also change depending on booking time and seat availability. Book flight tickets to Mumbai now at Vietnam Airlines website

Vietnam Airlines operates direct flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Mumbai. (Source: Internet)

5. Tips and notes when using Mumbai airport

For a smooth experience at Mumbai airport, please note the following:

• Distance between stations: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 are approximately 5 km apart. If you have a connecting flight that requires a change of terminal, allow yourself ample time (at least 30-45 minutes for travel and check-in) to avoid missing your flight.
• Time to arrive at the airport: For international flights, you should be at the airport 2.5 to 3 hours before departure to complete check-in and security checks.
• Identity documents: Always carry a printed copy of your ticket or e-ticket along with your passport/visa to easily pass through the first security checkpoints before entering the check-in area.
• Strict security: India has very strict airport security regulations. Always check your identification documents and carry-on luggage before going through security. Follow all instructions given by security personnel.

Mumbai International Airport is not only a major air gateway to India but also a destination steeped in culture, art and modernity. Knowing the information about transportation and amenities will make your trip to Mumbai smoother and more comfortable, opening the door to explore a colorful and mysterious country.