For many years, passengers travelling through Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport have complained about the steep “airport pricing” attached to even the simplest refreshments. Buying a cup of tea or a light bite often meant paying several times more than outside the terminal. This changed with the launch of the first Udaan Yatri Café at the airport, promising affordable rates comparable to roadside stalls. The outlet was virtually inaugurated by Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, marking Mumbai’s participation in a nationwide effort to make airport facilities accessible and budget-friendly for ordinary travellers.
Long known for premium restaurants and upscale lounges, the airport has now introduced a contrasting concept focused on everyday affordability. Located in Terminal 2 within the Departures section between Gates 1 and 2, the café provides refreshments at highly reasonable prices. Tea and bottled water are available for ₹10, while coffee, light snacks, and desserts are priced at ₹20. The initiative directly addresses a persistent concern among flyers, where even essential items such as water and basic food carried prices several times higher than those found outside the airport premises.
Branded under the government’s “Udaan” vision of enabling more citizens to travel by air, the café represents more than discounted food. Authorities have stressed that hygiene and quality standards will be maintained despite the modest pricing. By situating the outlet in a busy pre-check-in zone, the airport aims to serve passengers who arrive well ahead of departure and previously had limited economical choices. The initiative blends affordability with reliability, ensuring that cost-conscious travellers can access safe and satisfactory refreshments without financial strain before boarding.
The café began full operations on February 20, offering immediate relief to budget-minded passengers passing through the airport. While high-end international eateries and luxury beverage chains will continue catering to premium customers, this new addition introduces balance to the airport’s dining landscape. Travellers can now purchase multiple cups of tea and snacks for the cost of a single expensive coffee from a luxury outlet. With this step, Mumbai’s airport ushers in a more inclusive chapter, ensuring comfort and convenience are not limited to those willing to pay premium prices.