Mumbai Airport Introduces a Digital Gateway to Transform Traveler Experience

In a significant leap forward in enhancing passenger experience and operational efficiency, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) in Mumbai has unveiled a major expansion of its digital gateway program. This initiative, which marks a notable advancement in airport technology in India, has expanded the number of entry eGates from 24 to 68, making CSMIA the first airport in the country to offer such a large number of eGates at the kerbside/landside area.

The newly introduced eGates are designed to facilitate seamless travel for both DigiYatra and non-DigiYatra passengers. DigiYatra, a paperless travel initiative using biometric authentication, has been significantly enhanced at CSMIA with the creation of dedicated zones across all gates. Terminal 2 (T2) now features 28 dedicated DigiYatra eGates and 28 non-DigiYatra eGates, while Terminal 1 (T1) includes 6 dedicated eGates for each category. This expansion boosts T2’s processing capacity to an impressive 8,000 passengers per hour and T1’s capacity to 2,160 passengers per hour, tripling the airport’s overall processing capability without the need for major structural modifications.

A key feature of this expansion is the deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)-enabled cameras to enhance the security system at the kerbside. These technologies are expected to streamline security processes and improve the overall safety of passengers.

CSMIA’s spokesperson expressed excitement over the advancements, highlighting the airport's commitment to pioneering technological innovations that enhance passenger experience. “By increasing the number of eGates and integrating advanced biometric systems, we are committed to ensuring swift, secure, and seamless travel for all our passengers,” the spokesperson said.

The digital gateway solution leverages IoT sensors and biometric face recognition technology integrated with the DigiYatra foundation, allowing passengers to pass through eGates with minimal wait times, often under one minute. This system eliminates the need for passengers to present tickets, boarding passes, or identity verification at multiple points, significantly speeding up the entry process.

To assist passengers unfamiliar with the DigiYatra system, CSMIA has deployed “Digi Buddies” to guide them through the self-service systems, including Common Use Self-Service (CUSS), Common Use Passenger Processing Systems (CUPPS), and Self Bag Drop (SBD).

Moreover, an additional 118 eGates are being installed at the Pre-embarkation Security Check (PESC) area at T2 to further facilitate smooth passenger movement. This expansion is part of CSMIA’s broader strategy to handle increasing passenger traffic and enhance operational efficiency through real-time information sharing and improved decision-making processes.

The integration of dynamic digital screens displaying necessary travel information and capturing passengers' attention further contributes to the streamlined and informed travel experience at CSMIA. This holistic approach to modernizing airport operations positions CSMIA as a leader in leveraging technology to enhance passenger convenience and operational efficiency.