Mumbai Airport offers several transport options connecting to the city's various districts. Due to the metropolis' heavy traffic, the metro system and suburban trains are usually the fastest ways to travel longer distances.
Metro
The Line 3 (Aqua Line) of the Mumbai Metro is the newest and most direct option, with underground stations integrated into both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. This line runs through the city from north to south, linking the airport with financial hubs such as BKC and residential and tourist areas including Worli, Dadar, Churchgate and Cuffe Parade. Services generally operate between 6:00 am and 11:00 pm with regular frequencies.
In addition, Line 1 (Blue Line) serves the vicinity of Terminal 2 through the Airport Road and Marol Naka stations, providing access to the suburbs of Versova, Andheri and Ghatkopar.
Suburban trains
The Mumbai Suburban Railway network is the backbone of the city's transport system, although it may be overwhelming for travellers carrying a lot of luggage during peak hours. The railway stations closest to the terminals are:
- Terminal 1: Vile Parle Station (Western and Harbour Lines).
- Terminal 2: Andheri Station (Western and Harbour Lines) and Kanjurmarg Station (Central Line).
From these points, passengers can connect to the terminus stations of Mumbai Central and Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CSMT) for long-distance services.
Buses
BEST (Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport) operates regular services from the airport to railway stations and surrounding areas. Main routes include the 312 (from T1 to Vile Parle and Andheri), the 321 (from T2 to Vile Parle East) and the 308 (from T2 to Andheri East).
For a more comfortable experience, the Chalo Airport Express service provides premium air-conditioned buses with luggage space, connecting the terminals with strategic locations such as Colaba, Borivali and Thane. Routes, real-time timetables and tickets are available through the Chalo app.
Ride-hailing apps
Uber and Ola services are widely used and have clearly marked pick-up points. At Terminal 2, passengers should proceed to level P7 of the car park to board their vehicle. At Terminal 1, designated pick-up areas are located outside the arrivals area. It is recommended to request the ride once passengers are close to the boarding area with their luggage.
Taxis and Auto Rickshaws
Both terminals have prepaid taxi counters in the arrivals areas. This is the safest option for visitors, as fares are regulated and paid before the journey begins. Companies such as Meru Cabs and Cool Cabs operate from these official stands.
Auto Rickshaws (three-wheeled vehicles) are only permitted within Mumbai's suburbs (north of the Bandra and Sion areas). They can carry passengers to and from the airport terminals, but are not allowed to operate south of the city (South Mumbai).