In a major infrastructure push, India is set to build its first offshore airport near Mumbai, on an artificial island close to the upcoming Vadhvan seaport along the country’s western coast.
Modelled after Hong Kong International Airport and Osaka’s Kansai International Airport—both situated on reclaimed land—the project marks a significant step in India’s aviation expansion.
According to The Financial Express, the initiative has received initial approvals from the central environment and defence departments, along with the Maharashtra state government. Feasibility studies, involving the Airports Authority of India, are now set to commence, after which the total investment required for the project will be disclosed.
Located approximately 125 km from Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, the new airport is envisioned as Mumbai’s third major aviation hub. To ensure its viability, strong transport links with the existing Mumbai airport and the under-construction Navi Mumbai International Airport—being developed by the Adani Group—will be essential.
The Vadhvan seaport, which is expected to become India’s largest and deepest port, is a key component of the region’s connectivity strategy. Building the airport on reclaimed land aims to bypass common land acquisition hurdles that often delay large-scale infrastructure projects.
However, a major challenge remains: ensuring sufficient passenger traffic to justify the substantial investment. While India’s aviation, environment, and defence ministries have yet to comment on the project, the development underscores the government’s commitment to bolstering the nation’s transport and trade capabilities.
Given the scale of the initiative, experts note that it may take years before the offshore airport becomes operational.