Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport is located in a central area of Mumbai. Within ten years, the number of passengers frequenting the airport of India’s financial metropolis increased from approximately 6 million to over 32 million. The airport was stretched well beyond its capacities. Its operators finally decided to expand its infrastructure. With the new Terminal 2, designed by the American architectural firm of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, a representative gateway was constructed – for both national and international air traffic. Up to that point, the two had remained separate: Passengers arriving from abroad with a connecting flight out of Mumbai needed to prepare for a long walk. That’s all in the past now.

When designing the new building, the architects drew inspiration from the design language of Indian pavilions. Many elements of traditional local architecture such as the latticework of jali windows were adapted for the building. Decoration – though pleasantly subtle – is a ubiquitous theme. The delicate glass facade and the support structure of the roof are a real eyecatcher. Mushroom-like columns that are several metres in width merge seamlessly with the roof. Transom lights and lamps mounted between the ridges at regular intervals illuminate the gateway in a warm, glare-free light. Speaking of light: The suspended glass facade which encloses the building allows all levels to be flooded by daylight. To the east and west, perforated metal panels prevent excessive exposure when the sun is low. Passengers get to the terminal via an elevated road and a spacious vestibule on the fourth level. The majestic roof provides shelter to travellers and their friends and family, as well as adequate space for the ceremonial send-offs that are part of Indian culture. Inside, various service and shopping points spread over four levels. From the central processing area with its over 200 check-in desks, four piers lead to the individual gates in an X-shaped arrangement. 40 million passengers can now be processed in a 24-hour cycle; the fully automated luggage system distributes bags at a rate of nearly 10,000 items per hour.