Mumbai airport passenger traffic rises 1% to 1.36 cr in April–June quarter

Mumbai: Passenger traffic at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) grew just 1% year-on-year in the April–June quarter, rising to 1.36 crore. The flat growth—sharply lower than last year’s 7.4% jump—explains the impact of regional airspace disruptions, flight reroutings over West Asia, and lingering unease among travellers following a spate of global aviation safety incidents earlier this year.

This soft Q1 performance comes despite peak summer travel demand and highlights a broader trend: international hubs in India are feeling the ripple effects of geopolitical instability, tighter airspace, and operational volatility, even as domestic demand remains largely stable.

Data released by the airport operator shows total passenger traffic in Q1 FY26 stood at 13.6 million, compared to 13.4 million a year ago. The airport clocked its highest single-day passenger movement—161,603—on May 30.


Air Traffic Movements (ATMs) rose 1.3% year-on-year to 82,369. International ATMs increased 3.3%, and the busiest day for aircraft movements was April 30, with 989 flights.

The quarter was marked by multiple operational challenges. Ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia led to temporary rerouting and delays, while airspace restrictions in parts of the Middle East further disrupted international flight schedules. The aftermath of recent aviation safety incidents also impacted passenger sentiment, contributing to the subdued growth. Despite these headwinds, Mumbai Airport remained resilient during the peak summer travel season, handling traffic surges without major disruptions.

“Despite disruptions such as regional airspace restrictions, geopolitical conditions, temporary airspace closures in the Middle East, and a momentary dip in passenger sentiment stemming from recent aviation incidents, CSMIA sustained operational momentum,” the airport said in a statement.

Middle East traffic, which accounted for 48% of international departures, bore the brunt of rerouting, flight-level constraints and geopolitical tensions. The Asia-Pacific and Europe regions followed, contributing 30% and 14% respectively.

Among international routes, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and London remained top destinations. On the domestic side, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Kolkata led volumes. The airport added new international links to Amman, Almaty and Fujairah, and domestic routes to Porbandar, Gaya and Amravati. Air Astana and Royal Jordanian launched operations during the quarter.