Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport sees thousands of travellers every day. Fortunately, there is now good news if you dread long check‑in queues. Mumbai Airport has introduced 14 new Hybrid Self Bag Drop counters at Terminal 2. Crucially, this is the first step in a larger plan to convert all 212 check‑in desks at T2 to hybrid counters by 2028. As a result, passengers can expect faster processing, fewer queues, and a smoother start to their journey.
Key takeaways at a glance
- 14 Hybrid Self Bag Drop counters are now active at T2
- One‑step process so you can check in and drop bags at the same counter
- On‑the‑spot payments available for any extra baggage charges
- Two modes provided: self‑service for speed and manual help when needed
- Throughput per counter rises to 100 to 120 passengers per hour, compared with 25 to 30 at a manual desk
- Typical bag drop time is 20 to 25 seconds, whereas manual processing can take 2 to 4 minutes
- DigiYatra compatibility enables a faster, document‑light flow
- SBD assistants are positioned across the terminal to help first‑time and elderly travellers
- Airline rollout has begun with IndiGo and Air India, while more carriers will follow
What is a Hybrid Self Bag Drop at CSMIA T2
To begin with, Hybrid Self Bag Drop, often called Hybrid SBD, combines self‑service convenience with staffed support. In practice, travellers who want to self‑serve can scan a boarding pass, tag a bag, and place it on the belt in one smooth flow. Meanwhile, those who prefer assistance can use the same counter in staffed mode. Consequently, queues keep moving while help remains immediately available.
What is new at T2
- One‑step check‑in and bag drop: therefore no shuttling between separate counters
- On‑the‑spot payments: so you can clear any extra baggage charges right there
- Flexible operations: which switch easily between self‑service and manual support
How much faster is it
Speed is the headline benefit. Specifically, a single Hybrid SBD counter can process 100 to 120 passengers per hour, whereas a conventional manual counter handles 25 to 30. For travellers, this translates to a 20 to 25 second bag drop in the hybrid flow; by contrast, manual processing often takes 2 to 4 minutes per passenger. Therefore, across a bank of counters, you see visibly shorter queues, steadier movement, and better use of terminal space.
Who can use it today
At present, IndiGo and Air India are live on the Hybrid SBD system at T2. Additionally, several international airlines that already use the airport’s self‑service bag drop, including Lufthansa, Air France, Qatar, Swiss, and KLM, are expected to migrate to the hybrid setup soon. Accordingly, if your airline is enabled, you can head straight to the hybrid counters and follow the on‑screen prompts.
DigiYatra compatibility for a quicker flow
Importantly, the new hybrid counters work with DigiYatra. If you are enrolled, facial recognition enables a faster, document‑light experience that reduces manual checks across touchpoints. In particular, this helps during peak hours when every minute counts.
Step‑by‑step: How to use Hybrid Self Bag Drop at T2
- Locate your airline’s Hybrid SBD counters at T2.
- Scan your boarding pass at the kiosk.
- Tag your bag with the printed tag and attach it securely.
- Place your bag on the belt when the screen prompts you.
- Settle any excess baggage charges at the counter if needed.
- Collect your receipt and proceed to security.
If you prefer assistance or are travelling with special items, simply ask an SBD assistant or choose manual processing at the same hybrid counter. In either case, you will be guided through the process.
What it means for travellers
Overall, the change streamlines your journey from the moment you enter the departures hall. First, throughput per counter rises significantly, so queues shorten. Next, the one‑station approach reduces back‑and‑forth. Finally, T2 is on track to convert all 212 check‑in desks to hybrid by 2028, which will extend these benefits to even more passengers over time.
Pro tips to breeze through T2
- Check airline eligibility before you queue, especially during peak periods.
- Enrol in DigiYatra in advance to enjoy a faster, document‑light flow.
- Print and attach bag tags cleanly so the belt accepts your bag quickly.
- Keep payment methods handy in case you have excess baggage.
- Arrive a little early if you are a first‑time user and want guidance from an assistant.
FAQs
What is a Hybrid Self Bag Drop counter?
It is a counter that can switch between self‑service and manual modes so you can check in, tag, and drop your bag in one step, or request staff help at the same station.
How fast is it compared with manual check‑in?
A hybrid counter can handle 100 to 120 passengers per hour, while a manual counter typically handles 25 to 30. Consequently, bag drop can take 20 to 25 seconds in the hybrid flow, whereas manual processing often takes 2 to 4 minutes.
Which airlines are using it now at T2?
IndiGo and Air India are live. In addition, Lufthansa, Air France, Qatar, Swiss, and KLM are expected to move from self‑service bag drop to hybrid soon.
Can I pay excess baggage fees at the hybrid counter?
Yes. You can settle extra baggage charges at the counter itself, which eliminates a separate step.
Is DigiYatra supported?
Yes. The system works with DigiYatra to speed up identity verification and reduce manual checks, particularly at peak times.
Will staff be available if I need help?
Yes. Trained SBD assistants are deployed throughout the terminal to help first‑time flyers and elderly passengers.
