Tripling Processing Capacity: Mumbai Airport Increases Number of eGates to 68

The Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) has undergone significant expansion in its digital gateway program. The airport has improved the customer experience for both DigiYatra and non-DigiYatra passengers.

Mumbai Airport: eGates Increased

To enhance the processing capacity at the terminal entry, the Mumbai airport operator has increased the number of eGates from 24 to 68. This includes 28 DigiYatra and 28 non-DigiYatra eGates at Terminal 2, accompanied by 6 DigiYatra and 6 non-DigiYatra eGates at Terminal 1.

Now, Mumbai CSMIA has the highest number of eGates, when compared to other Indian airports. With this expansion, Terminal 2 will be able to process 7,440 passengers per hour, while Terminal 1 will process 2,160 passengers hourly. This is thrice the current processing capacity.

At the kerbside, the wait duration has been reduced to less than one minute. This will help the airport to ease congestion, specifically at the entry point.

The airport has integrated technology, process excellence, big data analytics, and design thinking to provide an outstanding passenger experience. Without the requirement of major construction work, the additional eGates were installed through advanced technology.

A spokesperson from Mumbai CSMIA excitedly announced this achievement. He said that the airport has expanded its digital gateway platform. This program is a reflection of our commitment to leading the way in innovative technology developments that improve the passenger experience. He added that the airport operator is committed to making sure that passenger travel is seamless.

On Request of CISF?

In February 2024, there was a security lapse at Mumbai Airport. A passenger without a ticket somehow entered the airport building and passed through multiple checkpoints. He tailgated other passengers to pass through the eGates. He eventually reached the boarding gate, where he was stopped by an airline employee.

Ministry of Home Affairs had labeled this incident as a major security lapse. CISF took responsibility for this lapse and the responsible officer was suspended.

As part of some suggestions, the CISF requested the airport operator to increase the number of eGates at the airport. Now, it has been implemented. In addition, it asked the company responsible for eGate manufacturing to ensure that the alarm rings when someone tries to get through tailgating.

Conclusion

Months after CISF requested the Mumbai Airport to install more eGates at the airport entry, the airport has announced increment of number of eGates from 24 to 68. Now, T1 has 12 and T2 has 56 eGates. Passenger processing capacity has increased by 300%.

What do you think about this gateway expansion at Mumbai Airport? Discuss in the comment section.