Flying from Mumbai Airport to Get Costlier from May 16: AERA Approves New UDF Tariffs

From May 16, 2025, passengers flying through Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), managed by the Adani Group, will experience a change in travel costs. The Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (AERA) has approved the imposition of User Development Fees (UDF) for both arrivals and departures on domestic routes a charge that was previously not levied.

Under the new structure, domestic travellers will pay ₹175 when departing and ₹75 upon arrival. Although CSMIA had proposed a UDF of ₹325 for domestic travellers, AERA approved a significantly reduced rate, nearly 50% lower than the original request.

Revised UDF Structure for International Passengers

AERA has also cleared a variable tariff plan for international travellers, with distinct charges for economy and business class passengers. This represents a significant departure from the current uniform UDF rate of ₹187 for all international flights.

Starting 16 May 2025:

• International business class passengers will pay ₹695 when departing and ₹304 upon arrival.
   
• International economy class passengers will pay ₹615 for departures and ₹260 for arrivals.

This updated tariff structure marks an increase of over 200% compared to existing fees, justified by AERA as a reflection of enhanced airport infrastructure and traveller experience.

Adjustments in Airline Charges: Landing and Parking

In addition to the revised UDF, AERA has rationalised landing and parking charges for airlines. Landing fees have been reduced to ₹402 per metric tonne (MT) for domestic aircraft and ₹603 per MT for international aircraft. This downward revision follows a proposal by CSMIA to reduce these charges by 35% during stakeholder consultations.

The regulator noted that the revised charges are aimed at maintaining competitive and reasonable operational costs for airlines.

Read More: India’s First Offshore Airport to Be Built Near Mumbai.

Terminal 1 Redevelopment and Projected Passenger Trends

CSMIA had previously announced its plan to demolish and rebuild Terminal 1 to enhance overall capacity. Although this redevelopment was initially expected to begin in November, delays have pushed the timeline further. The airport’s management is now prioritising the commencement of operations at the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport.

During the reconstruction phase, a decline in domestic passenger traffic is anticipated:

• FY26: 12.93% decline expected
   
• FY27: 6.30% decline expected

0However, traffic is projected to rebound once the revamped Terminal 1 becomes operational:

• FY28: 21.36% increase anticipated
   
• FY29: 1.04% growth expected

Similarly, international passenger numbers are expected to rise by 4.09% and 14.01% in FY28 and FY29, respectively.

AERA’s Rationale: Balancing User Experience and Costs

In its official statement, AERA stated that the tariff adjustments were in line with the "user pays" principle. According to the regulator, the updated UDF structure considers the enhanced amenities and upgraded services now available to passengers. It aims to strike a balance between fair cost recovery for the airport operator and a continued emphasis on traveller convenience and operational efficiency.

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