Adani-run Mumbai airport proposes 33% cut to intl slots, airlines push back

Mumbai International Airport Ltd, operated by Adani Airport Holdings, will begin partial demolition of Terminal 1B’s north section in January 2027, citing safety concerns after a recent fire. To accommodate the work, the airport seeks a 33 % cut in international departure slots, affecting roughly 5 million of its 55 million annual passengers and shifting traffic to Terminal 2. The Airline Operators Committee of Mumbai rejected the proposal, arguing that winter schedules were already set and that airlines were not consulted.

While Adani claims the renovated terminal will boost capacity to 20 million passengers and will restore historic slots, airlines warn the sudden reduction could disrupt schedules and connectivity. Adani also offered a 100 % landing-fee waiver and passenger vouchers for flights moved to the nearby Navi Mumbai airport, but carriers have not agreed to a forced transfer. After a civil aviation secretary-led meeting, the cuts were postponed briefly, though the airport reiterated the need for a collective airline proposal.