In a potential game-changer for Mumbai’s real estate sector, the Maharashtra government has indicated its willingness to explore the possibility of increasing the Floor Space Index (FSI) in the city’s airport funnel zone. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde recently said the government is open to reviewing FSI norms in this regulated area, pending coordination with aviation authorities.
The airport funnel zone includes areas around flight paths where building heights and densities are tightly controlled to ensure air safety. These restrictions have long hampered redevelopment in key suburban localities such as Santacruz, Vile Parle, Kurla, and Ghatkopar — zones populated with older buildings awaiting modernization.
If the proposal to raise FSI is approved, it could pave the way for much-needed urban renewal, increased housing availability, and better project viability for developers. However, Shinde emphasized that any changes would be made while upholding strict air traffic safety standards in collaboration with the Airport Authority of India (AAI).
Real estate stakeholders are hopeful, as the move could unlock new development opportunities and inject momentum into Mumbai’s dense and aging real estate pockets. Still, until official policy changes are enacted, developers and homebuyers will need to wait and watch.