Mumbai, the bustling metropolis of India, is a major hub for both domestic and international travel. With millions of passengers passing through each year, the city’s airport infrastructure plays a vital role in connecting it to the rest of the world. So, how many airports does Mumbai actually have?
While Mumbai is widely known for its primary international airport, the city actually boasts two airports within its limits. These are the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) and the much smaller Juhu Aerodrome.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport: Mumbai’s Gateway to the World
[image-1|mumbai-airport-terminal-2|Mumbai Airport Terminal 2|A wide-angle shot of the modern and sleek exterior of Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport Terminal 2, showcasing its impressive architecture and bustling atmosphere.]
The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, named after the great Maratha warrior king, is the main international airport serving Mumbai and the surrounding metropolitan region. Located in the suburb of Andheri, about 30 kilometers north of the city center, it is the busiest airport in India in terms of international passenger traffic and ranks second busiest overall.
CSMIA serves as a hub for several major Indian airlines, including Air India, Vistara, and IndiGo, connecting Mumbai to numerous domestic and international destinations. With two terminals, Terminal 2 handling international flights and Terminal 1 catering to domestic operations, the airport sees a constant flow of travelers from all corners of the globe.
“CSMIA is a testament to Mumbai’s status as a global city,” says aviation expert, Arun Shah. “Its modern facilities and strategic location make it a crucial gateway for trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.”
Juhu Aerodrome: A Historic Landmark with a Niche Role
[image-2|juhu-aerodrome-aerial-view|Juhu Aerodrome Aerial View| An aerial photograph capturing the entirety of Juhu Aerodrome, showcasing its compact size nestled amidst the urban landscape of Mumbai, with a few small aircraft on the tarmac and the Arabian Sea shimmering in the background.]
While CSMIA handles the bulk of Mumbai’s air traffic, the city is also home to the historic Juhu Aerodrome. Established in 1928, Juhu Aerodrome holds the distinction of being India’s first airport. Situated in the affluent suburb of Juhu, this smaller airport primarily serves as a base for helicopter operations, flight training schools, and private aviation.
Though not open for commercial passenger flights, Juhu Aerodrome plays a crucial role in providing services like offshore helicopter transportation for the oil and gas industry, aerial joyrides, and emergency medical services.
“Juhu Aerodrome is a reminder of India’s pioneering spirit in aviation,” shares aviation historian, Aditi Rao. “Though it may not handle large-scale commercial flights, its historical significance and continued relevance in specialized aviation sectors cannot be overstated.”
Navigating Between Mumbai’s Airports
Traveling between the two airports in Mumbai is relatively straightforward. Taxis and app-based ride-sharing services like Ola and Uber are readily available. The journey time between CSMIA and Juhu Aerodrome is approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, you can also opt for public transportation. The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) buses operate regular services connecting both airports to various parts of the city.
For those wondering about metro connectivity, the Mumbai Metro is continually expanding, and while there isn’t a direct line to either airport yet, future plans aim to enhance accessibility. You can find more information about the nearest metro station to Bangalore Airport on our website.
nearest metro to bangalore airport
Conclusion
So, to answer the question, “How Many Airports Are There In Mumbai?” – the city has two airports: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) and Juhu Aerodrome. While CSMIA acts as the primary gateway for domestic and international travelers, Juhu Aerodrome serves a more niche role, catering to helicopter services, flight training, and private aviation. Together, these two airports ensure seamless connectivity for Mumbai, solidifying its position as a thriving hub for both business and leisure travel.
