Understanding Mumbai Airport's Two Terminals
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) has two operational terminals located about 3 km apart. For Pune travelers making the 130 km journey, choosing the right terminal matters for planning your arrival time and navigating drop-off zones.
The Two Terminals at a Glance
T1 Terminal 1 (Domestic)
- Official Name: Santacruz Terminal
- Size: Smaller, older terminal
- Built: 1958 (renovated 2014)
- Capacity: ~20 million passengers/year
- Primary Users: IndiGo, SpiceJet
T2 Terminal 2 (International + Domestic)
- Official Name: Integrated Terminal
- Size: Larger, modern terminal
- Built: 2014 (newest facility)
- Capacity: ~40 million passengers/year
- Primary Users: All international, Air India, Vistara, others
Complete Comparison: T1 vs T2 from Pune
| Factor | Terminal 1 (T1) | Terminal 2 (T2) |
|---|---|---|
| Distance from Pune | ~132 km | ~130 km |
| Journey Time | 2.5-3.5 hours | 2.5-3.5 hours (5-10 min less) |
| Cab Cost from Pune | Rs.2,700-3,800 | Rs.2,700-3,800 (similar) |
| Drop-off Zone | Basic, can be congested | Modern, multi-level, organized |
| Terminal Size | Smaller, compact | Large, spacious |
| Check-in Counters | ~100 counters | ~188 counters |
| Security Screening | Can have queues | More lanes, faster |
| Lounges | 2-3 basic lounges | 15+ premium lounges |
| Dining Options | Limited, basic | 50+ restaurants & cafes |
| Shopping | Minimal | Extensive duty-free & retail |
| WiFi | Free, basic | Free, high-speed |
| Architecture | Functional | Award-winning, iconic |
| Cleanliness | Good | Excellent |
| Signage | Adequate | Clear, multilingual |
| Walking Distance | Shorter (compact) | Longer (but travelators) |
Winner: Terminal 2
Unless you're flying IndiGo or SpiceJet domestic (which operate from T1), Terminal 2 is the superior choice with better facilities, organization, and passenger experience.
Which Airlines Operate from Which Terminal?
Terminal 1 Airlines
Domestic Flights Only
- IndiGo (6E)
All IndiGo domestic flights
- SpiceJet (SG)
All SpiceJet domestic flights
Note: T1 handles ONLY domestic flights. No international flights operate from Terminal 1.
Terminal 2 Airlines
International + Domestic
- Air India (AI)
International & domestic
- Vistara (UK)
International & domestic
- Air Asia India (I5)
Domestic flights
- Go First (G8)
Domestic flights
- All International Airlines
Emirates, Qatar, Singapore, British Airways, Lufthansa, etc.
Important: ALL international flights (including IndiGo international) operate from Terminal 2 only.
Always Check Your Ticket!
Airlines can change terminal assignments. Your flight ticket will clearly mention the terminal. Check it 24 hours before travel and inform your cab driver accordingly.
How to Reach Each Terminal from Pune
Both terminals are accessed via the same route from Pune until you reach the airport area. Here's what you need to know:
Common Route (Pune to Airport Area)
- 1. Mumbai-Pune Expressway (94.5 km) → Pass all 5 toll plazas
- 2. Continue on Sion-Panvel Highway after expressway ends
- 3. Follow signs for "Mumbai Airport" / "Santacruz" / "Andheri"
- 4. Enter airport road near Vile Parle/Andheri
Time: 2.5-3 hours | Distance: 130 km
To Terminal 1
After entering airport road, follow signs for "Domestic Terminal" or "T1" or "Santacruz Terminal". Terminal 1 appears first when coming from Pune direction.
Drop-off: Follow "Departure" signs. Multi-level drop-off area with lifts to departure hall.
To Terminal 2
Continue past T1 on airport road. Follow signs for "International Terminal" or "T2". Terminal 2 is approximately 3 km after Terminal 1.
Drop-off: Large, organized multi-level zone. Clear signage for domestic vs international departures.
Which Terminal Should Pune Travelers Choose?
Choose Terminal 2 (T2) If:
- You're flying international - All international flights operate from T2 only
- You're flying Air India, Vistara, Air Asia, or Go First - These airlines use T2 for domestic
- You want better facilities - Lounges, dining, shopping far superior at T2
- You have extra time - T2 has much more to do while waiting
- You value comfort - More spacious, cleaner, better organized
Choose Terminal 1 (T1) If:
- You're flying IndiGo domestic - All IndiGo domestic flights from T1
- You're flying SpiceJet domestic - All SpiceJet domestic flights from T1
- You prefer compact terminals - Smaller means less walking
- You're on a tight schedule - Quicker to navigate due to size
Frequently Asked Questions
Which terminal is closer from Pune - T1 or T2?
Terminal 2 (T2) is approximately 2 km closer to Pune via the expressway route. However, the time difference is minimal (5-10 minutes). T2 is the main international and domestic terminal with better facilities.
Can I use both terminals for domestic flights?
Most domestic flights now operate from Terminal 2. Terminal 1 handles only select budget airlines like IndiGo and SpiceJet for domestic routes. Always check your airline and terminal assignment on your ticket.
How far apart are T1 and T2 at Mumbai Airport?
Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 are approximately 3 km apart. If you need to transfer between terminals, it takes 10-15 minutes by shuttle bus or taxi. There is no walking connection between terminals.
What if I go to the wrong terminal?
Don't panic. Free shuttle buses run between T1 and T2 every 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, take a prepaid taxi (Rs.150-200, 10-15 minutes). Allow extra 30-45 minutes buffer if unsure about your terminal to avoid stress.
Does Terminal 2 cost more for cab drops from Pune?
No, cab fares are the same for both terminals from Pune (Rs.2,700-3,800). Some drivers may charge Rs.50-100 extra for T2 claiming "distance", but this is not standard. Agree on terminal-inclusive pricing before booking.
Can IndiGo international flights use Terminal 1?
No, ALL international flights (including IndiGo international) operate from Terminal 2 only. Terminal 1 is strictly for domestic flights of IndiGo and SpiceJet.
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