Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport Boosts Tourism Growth with Record Passenger Numbers in 2025

Published on December 27, 2025

Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) reached new heights, both in terms of passenger traffic and its role in boosting tourism in India. The airport’s consistent performance throughout the year highlighted its crucial contribution to the nation’s tourism industry. With over 55 million passengers passing through its terminals in 2025, the airport saw significant growth in both domestic and international tourism. The record-breaking numbers reflect not only the expanding tourism demand in Mumbai but also the city’s increasing global appeal as a prime destination for travellers.

The airport’s remarkable feat comes during a period of growing interest in India as a tourist hotspot, with CSMIA standing as a key facilitator of international arrivals. This surge in passenger traffic was largely driven by the festive season, as domestic travellers flooded the airport to catch flights across India’s most popular destinations. At the same time, international routes also contributed to the rise, with Mumbai welcoming millions of overseas tourists, particularly from neighbouring countries such as the United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, and Thailand.

Record-Breaking Numbers Reflect Surge in Tourism

During the months of November and December, CSMIA experienced record daily traffic, with 176,000 passengers passing through the airport in a single day—marking a new high for the airport’s operations. These peak numbers came at a time when many international travellers chose Mumbai as their gateway to explore India’s vast tourism offerings, from its vibrant cities to cultural landmarks. This trend was bolstered by the increasing demand for routes to Europe and Southeast Asia, making Mumbai a crucial hub for global tourism.

One of the key drivers behind CSMIA’s success is its strategic location, with Mumbai being a major business and tourism centre. The airport has long been a crucial link for international business travellers, and this year, it also catered to a growing segment of leisure tourists. The city’s rich cultural heritage, combined with modern luxury offerings, continues to attract tourists from around the world. Whether visiting iconic landmarks like the Gateway of India or enjoying the coastal beauty of Marine Drive, Mumbai remains an attractive destination for both first-time visitors and repeat travellers.

Expanding Connectivity with Key Global Destinations

Mumbai’s CSMIA has worked relentlessly to expand its connectivity to international destinations, facilitating better access for tourists. The launch of new international flights, such as the direct route between Mumbai and London Heathrow, has made the city even more accessible to European tourists. Increased air connectivity with the Middle East, particularly to the UAE and Saudi Arabia, has also been a major contributor to the rise in international tourism. This growing network is opening doors for more travellers to discover Mumbai as their entry point to India’s vast tourism offerings.

Additionally, domestic travel has seen remarkable growth, with Mumbai becoming the focal point of India’s most important air travel routes. Flights to key tourist cities like Goa, Bengaluru, and Delhi have seen a dramatic rise, with millions of domestic travellers using the airport as a hub for their adventures across India. The airport’s ability to handle high volumes of passengers while maintaining operational efficiency has played a crucial role in sustaining this growth.

Award-Winning Customer Experience Enhances Tourism Appeal

CSMIA’s exceptional customer experience has also contributed to its success. In 2025, the airport achieved the coveted Level 5 Airport Customer Experience Accreditation from Airports Council International (ACI), a recognition that places it among the top airports in the world. The award acknowledges the airport’s dedication to enhancing the passenger journey, which directly impacts the overall tourism experience in Mumbai. By prioritizing seamless check-ins, efficient baggage handling, and modern facilities, CSMIA has ensured that visitors to Mumbai start their journey on a positive note.

This focus on improving customer experience is especially important in the context of tourism, where first impressions matter. A positive airport experience sets the tone for visitors, ensuring they feel welcomed and valued. This is particularly important in a city like Mumbai, which attracts millions of visitors each year, many of whom arrive for business and leisure purposes.

Sustainability and Environmental Initiatives Add Value to Visitor Experience

Along with its operational growth, CSMIA has also made significant strides in sustainability. The airport’s commitment to net-zero emissions and the introduction of eco-friendly practices is appealing to a growing segment of environmentally conscious tourists. The focus on reducing the airport’s carbon footprint aligns with global tourism trends, where sustainable travel is becoming increasingly important to visitors. CSMIA’s sustainability efforts contribute to the broader appeal of Mumbai as a forward-thinking, responsible travel destination.

Looking Ahead: Sustaining Growth in India’s Tourism Sector

Looking ahead, CSMIA’s continued investment in infrastructure and customer service is expected to sustain its growth. With plans for further expansion and the upcoming launch of Navi Mumbai International Airport, the region’s air connectivity is set to improve even further. This will allow Mumbai to accommodate an even larger number of international and domestic visitors, making the city an even more prominent tourism hub.

As India continues to recover from the pandemic’s impact on global travel, Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport stands as a symbol of resilience and growth in the tourism sector. By enhancing connectivity, offering exceptional customer service, and prioritising sustainability, the airport is well-positioned to support the continued expansion of tourism to Mumbai and beyond. For travellers, it’s a gateway not only to India’s rich cultural heritage but also to a modern, thriving metropolis ready to showcase its diversity to the world.