Mumbai Airport’s New Normal: What Every Passenger Should-and Shouldn’t-Do

Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) has rolled out a comprehensive passenger advisory in response to heightened regional tensions and the temporary closure of 32 airports across northern and western India. Travelers are urged to strictly follow new guidelines to ensure safety, minimize delays, and maintain smooth airport operations.

Key Highlights:

Arrive Early: Travelers need to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours prior to domestic flights and 4 hours prior to international flights because of heightened security checks and more passengers.

Carry Valid ID: Have government-issued photo identification (passport, Aadhaar, visa) and boarding passes handy for repeated checks.

Pack Smart:

Liquids in carry-on luggage are restricted to 100ml containers, placed in a clear zip-lock bag.

Laptops and tablets should be screened separately during security screening.

Refer to the airport or airline website for a list of banned items.

Keep Luggage With You: Abandoned baggage will be treated as suspicious and may initiate emergency procedures.

Stay Informed: Follow official airport and airline sources for real-time information on flight schedules, gate changes, and security notifications.

Report Suspicious Behavior: Report immediately to CISF officers or airport authorities any suspicious activity or left-luggage items.

Cooperate Fully: Remain relaxed, follow all directions of security and airlines staff, and refrain from excess chatter regarding security issues.

Don'ts: Do not receive anything from strangers, do not crack jokes or make remarks regarding security threats, and do not record or take photos while security operations are being conducted.

These actions, effective until at least May 15, demonstrate Mumbai Airport's efforts to ensure passenger safety and operational efficiency amid this time of heightened alert.

Source: Times of India