PM Modi Unveils Phase 1 of Navi Mumbai International Airport: A Modern and Eco-Friendly Gateway
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Phase 1 of Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in India's infrastructure development. This new greenfield airport, spread over 1,160 hectares, is being developed at a cost of Rs 19,650 crore. The domestic flight operations are expected to commence in the first week of December 2025, followed by international operations within two months.
The work on one of the airport's two runways has been completed, and all terminals will be connected through an integrated system, providing improved passenger convenience. For added convenience, direct check-in at the metro station and baggage service will be available through the 'One-Up End-to-End Baggage Facility' app.
Environmental sustainability is a key focus of the NMIA. The airport has placed special emphasis on green energy and water conservation. The terminal will showcase Indian culture through digital art, and artificial intelligence (AI) technology will be used in various operational processes to enhance efficiency and passenger experience.
To improve connectivity, a new road is being constructed from Atal Setu to Kosthal Road. Metro Line 8 is also expected to be approved soon, connecting both Navi Mumbai and Mumbai airports. Additionally, a water taxi service will be launched to provide another mode of transportation for travelers.
The airport has parking facilities for 350 aircraft and separate taxiways for both runways. The entire project is expected to be completed within four years. The opening of Navi Mumbai International Airport will significantly increase the air traffic capacity of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, emerging as a symbol of India's progressive development.
According to the NMIA fact sheet, the airport will handle 90 million passengers per annum and 3.25 million metric tonnes of cargo per annum upon full completion. Phase one of the project is designed to handle 20 million passengers per annum and 0.5 million metric tonnes of cargo. The airport’s ownership is held by Navi Mumbai International Airport Ltd, comprising MIAL (74 per cent) and CIDCO (26 per cent). The Director General of Civil Aviation granted an Aerodrome Licence to NMIA on September 30.
NMIA and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport together form a multi-airport system for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, establishing an aviation hub with a combined ultimate passenger capacity of up to 150 million passengers per annum. NMIA will ease congestion and elevate Mumbai into the league of global multi-airport systems, further solidifying India's position as a leading destination for air travel and cargo operations.
