Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) has reported remarkable growth in digital adoption, positioning itself among India’s most advanced airports. The rise of self-service options reflects the wider industry shift toward technology-driven, contactless travel.

Between April 2024 and August 2025, more than 3.86 million boarding passes were printed using self-check-in kiosks. IndiGo led the adoption with 2.58 million, followed by Air India with 1.09 million and Air India Express with 53,301. Among international carriers, Air France accounted for 90,902 boarding passes, ahead of Emirates at 18,356 and Lufthansa at 18,017. In August 2025 alone, 264,414 boarding passes were printed, a 41.8 per cent increase compared to April 2024.

The airport’s 32 self-baggage drop (SBD) units processed over 7.15 lakh bags during this period, with average processing times of 17–20 seconds. Domestic airlines accounted for nearly 6 lakh bags, while international carriers such as KLM, Air France, Emirates, Lufthansa, and Swiss collectively handled over 70,000. SBD adoption grew steadily, with international use rising from 4.15 per cent in April 2024 to 13.9 per cent in August 2025, and domestic use increasing from 5.26 per cent to 6.28 per cent.

Biometric-enabled travel also surged, with 6.3 million passengers using DigiYatra e-gates between April 2024 and August 2025. Adoption rose from 12 per cent in April 2024 to 32 per cent by August 2025. With 46 e-gates and 40 facial recognition pods across both terminals, DigiYatra allows passengers to clear checkpoints in just 2–3 seconds.

This progress is supported by the airport’s modernised Airport Operations Control Centre (AOCC) and Aviio, an AI-powered platform by Adani Airports, which boosts predictive analytics, operational efficiency, and real-time collaboration. Additional innovations include autonomous cleaning robots, with upcoming plans for smart washrooms and expanded AI/ML applications.

With strong passenger response and continued investment in digital infrastructure, CSMIA is advancing toward global best practices, setting a new benchmark in efficiency and passenger experience.

SpiceJet has received another boost to its financial credibility, with Acuité Ratings & Research upgrading the airline’s long-term credit rating to BB (Stable) from BB- (Stable). This marks the company’s second upgrade in just a month, underlining its improved liquidity, stronger financial discipline, and clear operational roadmap. The short-term rating has been reaffirmed at A4+.

The upgrade comes after Acuité considered fresh details provided by the airline. Earlier, the rating agency had already raised SpiceJet’s rating to BB- (Stable). The latest revision reflects greater confidence in the airline’s turnaround efforts, including new aircraft inductions, settlements with key lessors, and structured financial planning.

A major driver of the improved outlook is SpiceJet’s revival strategy. The airline is preparing to induct new leased aircraft, nearly triple its daily flights to around 280, and return grounded planes to service. A recent settlement with Carlyle Aviation Partners is also expected to strengthen liquidity by offering cash credits for future maintenance, while restructuring lease debt by converting part of it into airline ownership.

Acuité noted the importance of SpiceJet’s seasoned leadership in shaping this progress. Chairman and Managing Director Ajay Singh, with over 15 years in aviation, has been credited with steering past turnarounds and strengthening the company’s growth path. The agency also highlighted the airline’s diversified revenue model as a strong foundation for long-term resilience.

Sharing his views on the development, Debojo Maharshi, Chief Business Officer at SpiceJet, said:

“The back-to-back upgrades in our credit ratings are a strong validation of SpiceJet’s consistent efforts to strengthen its financial foundation and build a resilient future. With fresh aircraft inductions, restructured agreements with lessors, and a focused strategy on growth and profitability, SpiceJet is well positioned to expand operations, enhance customer experience, and create long-term value for all stakeholders.”

Acuité further added that SpiceJet’s diversified revenue streams and expanding fleet capacity are set to support the airline’s revenue profile in the near to medium term, reflecting a positive outlook for India’s aviation market.

Air India Express has become a member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), a significant step that enhances its global profile and underscores its commitment to international safety and operational standards.

The membership provides the airline access to IATA’s settlement systems and the opportunity to actively participate in shaping global aviation policies, supporting its expansion across both domestic and international markets. IATA represents about 350 airlines from over 120 countries, accounting for more than 80 per cent of global air traffic.

To qualify, airlines must successfully complete the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA), which involves compliance with over 900 standards. Air India Express has been IOSA-registered since 2017.

Welcoming the airline, Sheldon Hee, Regional Vice President for Asia Pacific, IATA, said, “We welcome Air India Express into the IATA family. Air India Express has been on the IOSA registry since 2017, and we are glad that they have taken the next step to become an IATA member. Having Air India Express as a member broadens the perspectives that we can bring to the global issues affecting our industry.”

Aloke Singh, Managing Director, Air India Express, commented, “Becoming a part of the IATA family is a proud moment for us. It highlights our commitment to enhance our global standing, assuring our guests of world-class standards, and facilitates access to global partnerships. As we continue to grow our footprint, IATA membership is an additional step taken by Air India Express to ensure that every journey is supported by the highest standards of reliability, safety, and convenience.”

The membership also allows Air India Express to participate in IATA’s Billing and Settlement Plans (BSP), enabling wider distribution through accredited travel agents and strengthening its international reach.

Currently operating a fleet of 115 aircraft with over 500 daily flights to 41 domestic and 17 international destinations, including key markets in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and the Indian subcontinent, Air India Express is rapidly growing. With IATA membership, the airline further strengthens its role as one of India’s fastest-growing carriers, offering enhanced reliability and global connectivity built on internationally recognised standards.