Navi Mumbai International Airport to Begin Operations by 17 April 2025
The much-anticipated Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) is gearing up to start operations, marking a transformative milestone in India’s aviation industry. The official inauguration is set for April 17, 2025, followed by the commencement of commercial operations in the second week of May.
Arun Bansal, Group CEO of Adani Airports Holding Ltd (AAHL), shared the latest developments during a press briefing, highlighting the significant achievement of the first commercial flight landing at the airport. An Indigo A320 aircraft made its maiden journey from Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) to NMIA at 1:38 PM on Sunday, showcasing one of the shortest commercial flight routes in Indian history.
Swift Approvals and High Expectations
NMIA is on track to receive its aerodrome permit from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) by mid-April 2025, ensuring readiness for operations by May. Designed to accommodate 20 million passengers annually in its initial phase, NMIA has plans to expand its capacity to a staggering 90 million passengers over time. “Our collaboration with airlines, both domestic and international, is advancing rapidly,” said Bansal. “We’re committed to providing seamless connectivity and an unparalleled passenger experience.” The airport’s cutting-edge amenities and strategic location aim to attract airlines while alleviating the pressure on the overcrowded CSMIA. To further enhance capacity, the construction of a second terminal is slated to begin in March 2028.
Future-Proof Connectivity and Operations
International flights are expected to commence by July 2025, with metro connectivity between NMIA and CSMIA reducing travel time between the two hubs, approximately 35 km apart. NMIA also achieved critical milestones in operational readiness with the successful validation of the Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI) system on December 12, 2024, and a successful test landing by an Indian Air Force C-295 aircraft on October 11, 2024.
Boosting Regional Development
Once operational, NMIA will serve as the second international airport in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), complementing CSMIA and enhancing regional connectivity. Its strategic location and advanced infrastructure are expected to significantly boost economic growth, making Navi Mumbai a pivotal hub in India’s aviation landscape.
With its state-of-the-art facilities, capacity for rapid expansion, and emphasis on passenger comfort, NMIA is poised to redefine air travel for millions of travelers and pave the way for the future of aviation in India.