Why groups prefer one vehicle to the airport
When ten people fly together, booking three cabs to Mumbai means three sets of luggage worries, three drivers and three arrival times. With a Pune to Mumbai Airport tempo traveller, everyone leaves together, the bags travel with you, and the group reaches the terminal at the same moment. That matters most for elders, families with small children and pilgrimage groups going abroad.
Getting the timing right
Most missed-flight stories start with “we thought three hours was enough”. The road itself is predictable on the Expressway, but the last 30 to 40 km into Mumbai can change by an hour depending on the day. Accidents or slow traffic in the Khandala ghat can also add delay.
Work backwards from your flight. Take the time your airline wants you at the airport, add the 3 to 4 hour drive, and then add at least an hour of buffer. Night and early-morning departures are easier; a 6 PM weekday flight needs the most cushion.
Terminal 1 or Terminal 2
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport has two terminals. T2 at Sahar handles international flights and many domestic ones, while T1 at Santacruz handles domestic flights of some airlines. Airline terminal allocations do change, so always check your ticket and tell us the terminal when you book. The driver will plan the approach road accordingly.
If your flight is from Navi Mumbai International Airport, that is also available on request. Just confirm the airport clearly when you book.
Luggage, comfort and the right size
Airport trips are where seat count can mislead you. A group of ten with two large suitcases each needs more space than ten people going for a day trip. As a guide:
- Up to 8 people with heavy bags: a 10 seater or 12 seater
- 10 to 12 people with international luggage: a 14 or 17 seater
- Larger tour or Hajj and Umrah groups: a 20 or 26 seater
Our guide on choosing a tempo traveller size explains this in more detail.
Pickups when you land
For arrivals, send us the flight number and expected landing time. After a long international flight, immigration and baggage can take a while, so there is no need to rush. Call or WhatsApp the driver once you have your bags and he will guide you to the pickup point. You then sit back for the drive home, with a stop for food on the Expressway if the group wants.
Red-eye and early-morning flights
Many international flights leave Mumbai late at night or in the small hours. For these, a night pickup from Pune is often the calmest option, since the Expressway and the Mumbai roads are much emptier. Elders can sleep on the way, and you reach the airport fresh enough for check-in. Just make sure everyone has eaten before you leave, as food stops are fewer late at night.
Pricing for airport runs
Airport transfers are priced per km with a daily minimum distance, like our other outstation trips. Toll, airport parking and driver allowance are usually extra. See the price page for current rates, or message us your flight details for a quote.
