Navi Mumbai International Airport Takes Off with First Commercial Flight, International Ops by March-End
Navi Mumbai, 25th December 2025: After years of anticipation, Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) is finally ready to welcome passengers, as it prepares to operate its first commercial domestic flight on Thursday, marking a landmark moment for Maharashtra’s aviation infrastructure. International passenger and cargo services are expected to follow by the end of March, officials confirmed.
Announcing the development in Belapur, CIDCO Vice-Chairman and Managing Director Vijay Singhal said the new airport has been designed to handle up to 90 million passengers annually, with a target of 20 million passengers in its inaugural year. From January 15 onwards, NMIA is expected to manage 48 aircraft movements daily, while cargo operations will commence from the very first day.
The airport is expected to play a crucial role in easing pressure on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, which currently handles one of the highest passenger volumes in the country.
Grand Inaugural Ceremony Planned:
To mark the historic first flight, airport operator Adani Group has planned a ceremonial welcome. The inaugural aircraft will receive a water cannon salute, and passengers on the first flight will be presented with complimentary gifts, coinciding with the festive Christmas period.
The first arrival is scheduled from Bengaluru at 8 am, followed by the airport’s first departure to Hyderabad at 8.40 am.
In the initial phase, NMIA will offer connectivity to key domestic destinations such as Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Goa, Kochi, and Ahmedabad. Airlines including Akasa Air, IndiGo, Air India Express, and Star Air will operate flights from the new airport.
Cargo handling facilities will also become operational immediately, strengthening Mumbai’s position as a major logistics and trade hub.
Singhal said extensive work is underway to ensure seamless access to the airport through multi-modal transport options, including road connectivity, metro rail, water transport, and a proposed high-speed rail link.
Looking ahead, CIDCO is also preparing to appoint an internationally experienced consultancy to carry out a feasibility study for a third runway, underlining long-term expansion plans.
Officials believe NMIA will emerge as a major economic driver for Navi Mumbai, Panvel and Uran, generating employment, attracting investment, and accelerating regional development.
