Successful validation test of first commercial flight at Navi Mumbai Airport

Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), one of India's largest greenfield international airports, is set to be inaugurated on April 17, 2025. Operations will commence from the second week of May 2025, according to Arun Bansal, Group CEO of Adani Airports Holding Ltd (AAHL). Bansal made the announcement during the first landing of a commercial aircraft at the airport, a significant milestone for NMIA.

The inaugural flight was an Indigo A320 aircraft, which landed at 1.38 pm after taking off from Mumbai, marking what could be the shortest flight ever recorded between the two airports.

Commercial Operations to Begin in May 2025

Bansal revealed that commercial operations are scheduled to start by the second week of May, following the official inauguration on April 17. "We are eager to welcome passengers right after the inauguration. We will submit the application for the aerodrome permit on February 6 and expect to receive it within 70 days," Bansal explained.

Strategic Importance and Connectivity

Highlighting NMIA's strategic importance in meeting the growing demand for air travel in the region, Bansal said, "We are in discussions with all major airlines, both domestic and international, to ensure comprehensive connectivity for our passengers."

State-of-the-Art Amenities

NMIA is designed to handle 90 million passengers and 2.5 million tonnes of cargo annually. "We have incorporated modern facilities to enhance the passenger experience and meet their diverse requirements. Capacity will not be a problem for us," Bansal added. The current terminal is capable of handling up to 20 million passengers annually, with plans for a second terminal to begin construction in March 2028.

International Operations and Connectivity

Bansal aims to start international operations by the end of July, despite ongoing discussions regarding last-minute connectivity arrangements. "We are confident of resolving these soon," he assured.

Dignitaries in Attendance

The event was attended by Uran MLA Mahesh Baldi, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of CIDCO, Vijay Singhal, CEO of Navi Mumbai International Airport Ltd (NMIAL), Capt BVJK Sharma, and other dignitaries. Singhal mentioned that metro connectivity between CSMIA and NMIA is planned to facilitate easier access for Mumbai residents, given the 35 km distance between the two airports.

PAPI System Validation

On December 12, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) conducted a validation of the Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI) system, crucial for guiding pilots during landing. This system, validated by AAI's Flight Inspection Unit (FIU), uses red and white lights to help pilots maintain the correct glide path. The validation process, essential for pilot safety, involves trials and analyses under both day and night conditions.