Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) could soon become more expensive for travellers as Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL) has proposed a steep hike in the User Development Fee (UDF). The airport, operated by the Adani Group, has submitted the proposal to increase charges for both domestic and international passengers, citing the need for infrastructure improvements and better passenger services.
If approved, international passengers departing from Mumbai could see their UDF jump from ₹187 to ₹650. Domestic passengers, who are currently not charged, may have to pay ₹325 per departure. The proposal is under review, and if it gets clearance, the revised charges will take effect in the upcoming financial year.
The increased fees are part of a larger ₹10,000 crore investment plan aimed at modernising the airport. The planned upgrades include a new domestic-to-domestic transfer facility at Terminal 2, a dedicated taxiway to reduce aircraft waiting times, eGates for seamless terminal entry, free inter-terminal coach transfers, and FASTag-enabled parking systems. MIAL has positioned these changes as necessary steps to enhance passenger experience and manage growing air traffic efficiently.
While passengers may have to bear the higher costs, MIAL has proposed a 35% reduction in landing and parking charges for airlines. This measure is aimed at helping airlines keep ticket prices competitive despite the increased user fees. However, it remains to be seen whether airlines will pass on the benefit to passengers or adjust fares accordingly.
The proposal is currently under evaluation by the Airport Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA), which oversees tariff regulations for Indian airports. The final decision will determine whether Mumbai Airport’s millions of passengers will have to pay significantly higher departure fees in exchange for better facilities and smoother operations.
