Navi Mumbai Airport to Start Operations in 2025, Aims to Ease Mumbai Air Traffic Congestion
Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) will inaugurate on April 17, 2025, with regular flights starting by mid-May. This long-awaited launch will help decongest Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), which currently manages 50 million passengers annually with a single runway.
NMIA’s first phase will handle 20 to 30 air traffic movements (ATMs) per hour, catering to 20 million passengers annually. The airport will serve as a major hub for domestic and international airlines, improving connectivity and driving regional economic growth.
Arun Bansal, CEO of Adani Airport Holdings Ltd (AAHL), shared updates at a press event. “The landing of the first commercial aircraft marks a significant step in making the airport operational. We are securing the aerodrome license from the DGCA. After the inauguration, we need four weeks for security checks and documentation,” Bansal stated.
On December 29, an Airbus A320 became the first commercial aircraft to land at NMIA, receiving a ceremonial water salute. Bansal confirmed ongoing discussions with airlines eager to shift operations to Navi Mumbai to manage growing passenger traffic.
NMIA features state-of-the-art infrastructure, including biometric security, advanced terminal connectivity, and modern amenities to enhance the passenger experience. The airport’s single runway can manage up to 50 ATMs per hour, matching CSMIA’s capacity. However, in the initial phase, terminal capacity will limit operations to 20 to 30 ATMs per hour.
Airport Authority of India (AAI) sources reported that essential radar systems and technical equipment are pending installation. Terminal construction remains on track, but calibrating these systems will take time. In the meantime, NMIA will use Mumbai airport’s radar systems to enable early operations.
Bansal emphasized the urgency of NMIA’s launch, highlighting the need to meet passenger demand while ensuring technical readiness. “Mumbai airport’s single runway limits capacity. Navi Mumbai airport will absorb excess traffic and support aviation growth,” he added.
NMIA’s opening marks a pivotal shift in Mumbai’s aviation landscape, increasing capacity and addressing rising air travel demand. The airport’s operations will enhance regional connectivity and stimulate economic growth in Navi Mumbai and nearby areas.
This news report is curated with insights from multiple reliable news sources.
