The Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) is scheduled to be inaugurated on April 17, 2025, with domestic flight operations expected to commence in May. This announcement follows an inspection by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on February 25, where officials reviewed the airport’s preparedness. The joint venture between Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL) and CIDCO aims to ease congestion at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, which currently operates with a single runway.
During the inspection, 90% of the previously highlighted concerns were found to have been addressed. The review included participation from key officials, including representatives from AAHL, CIDCO, the Airports Authority of India (AAI), and the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). The airport had faced some setbacks, particularly during a commercial flight test on December 29, when an IndiGo A320 aircraft landed on runway 08/26, leading to concerns about readiness. However, with significant improvements, the airport is now preparing for its final approvals and licensing.
In its first phase, NMIA will accommodate 20 million passengers annually, with a long-term goal of handling 90 million passengers and 2.5 million tonnes of cargo by 2032. Its strategic location and state-of-the-art infrastructure position it as a key aviation hub in India. The airport’s design integrates modern passenger facilities, enhanced cargo handling capabilities, and sustainable technology to meet growing air travel demands.
With the DGCA’s final assessment underway, NMIA is expected to obtain its aerodrome license soon, paving the way for commercial operations. The multi-phase development plan ensures that Navi Mumbai will emerge as a major aviation and logistics hub, boosting regional connectivity and economic growth. The upcoming launch marks a significant milestone for India’s aviation sector, offering travelers an alternative to Mumbai’s heavily congested airport.