NAVI MUMBAI- The Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) is set to launch its first commercial passenger flight in September 2025, marking a major milestone in India’s aviation infrastructure.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed that the inaugural flight will take off from Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMI), a second major airport in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, complementing the existing Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM).
Navi Mumbai Airport Plan; Photo- Navi Mumbai Airport (X)Navi Mumbai Airport First Passenger Flight
Approximately 94% of construction work at the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMI) is complete.
The target for commercial operations has been firmly set for September 30, 2025, with final inspections and preparations currently underway.
The airport is expected to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who also performed its foundation ceremony.
NMIA will become one of the most technologically advanced airports in India, with a focus on high-speed operations, sustainability, and smart passenger services.
A standout feature is its high-efficiency baggage handling system, using 360 degree barcode scanners to enhance speed and accuracy, with the goal of becoming the fastest baggage claim system in the world.
Photo: DronemanAdvanced Infrastructure
NMIA is designed to eventually operate with two parallel runways and will be capable of handling up to 90 million passengers annually, a significant expansion compared to Mumbai’s existing airport.
The terminal building is nearly complete, with final interior and facade works ongoing. Over 13,000 workers are currently deployed to meet the September deadline, with an additional workforce planned to accelerate remaining tasks.
In terms of scale and technology, the airport will surpass most in India, offering ultra-modern facilities, sustainable fuel operations, and passenger-friendly systems.
Authorities are actively securing final commercial licenses in parallel with construction completion.
The NMIA project is being developed as a green airport, using 37 MW of renewable energy, with a commitment to operate all vehicles on electric or alternative fuels. Plans are also in place to make NMIA a major hub for sustainable aviation fuel.
The airport spans 1,160 hectares, with pre-development works such as river diversion and land preparation managed by CIDCO (City and Industrial Development Corporation).
The project secured financial closure in March 2022, with ₹12,770 crore funded by the State Bank of India out of a total cost of ₹19,647 crore.
Photo: Bhavya Velani, Aviation A2ZSeamless Access
Connectivity is a top priority for NMIA. Infrastructure projects linking Atal Setu to the Coastal Road, and a proposed elevated expressway from Thane, are being fast-tracked.
Additionally, passengers will benefit from four-directional access via suburban rail, metro lines, highways, and water transport.
Innovative features such as remote baggage check-in in multiple cities are being introduced, allowing travelers to reach the airport baggage-free.
Internally, the airport will deploy an underground terminal train system in its second phase, ensuring easy and vehicle-free transit within terminals.
Photo: NMIANaming Approval
The Maharashtra government has sent a naming proposal for NMIA to the Central Government.
Chief Minister Fadnavis and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde plan to follow up with the Prime Minister’s Office to finalize the airport’s official name before its inauguration.
Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Join us on Telegram Group for the Latest Aviation Updates. Subsequently, follow us on Google News
Navi Mumbai, Jewar Airport Eyes New Flights to these Gulf Cities
The post Navi Mumbai Airport Set for First Passenger Flight in Just 2 Months, Really? appeared first on Aviation A2Z.
