Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) has begun operations on a strong note, serving more than 26,000 passengers in its first five days, highlighting the long-standing need for an additional airport to support the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Passenger volumes were steady from the outset, pointing to encouraging acceptance by both airlines and travellers.
From December 25 to December 29, the airport handled 12,431 inbound passengers and 13,590 outbound passengers. Traffic peaked over the weekend, with Saturday and Sunday each recording over 5,500 passengers. During this period, NMIA efficiently managed 162 scheduled aircraft movements, indicating seamless operational performance.
At present, NMIA offers direct connectivity to 13 key domestic destinations, including Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Goa. These routes cater to a mix of business and leisure travel while also helping reduce congestion at Mumbai’s existing airport. Officials have confirmed that the network will expand further in the weeks ahead.
The airport has been developed as a greenfield project under a public-private partnership between Adani Airports Holdings Limited and CIDCO. In its first phase, NMIA is equipped to handle up to 20 million passengers annually, along with considerable cargo operations, allowing capacity to scale in line with growing demand.
Upon full completion, NMIA will be able to accommodate up to 90 million passengers per year, supported by two parallel runways, contemporary terminals, and advanced cargo infrastructure. Sustainability has been embedded into the project through eco-conscious design and the use of renewable energy.
With its modern facilities and strategic location, NMIA is set to play a pivotal role in strengthening regional air connectivity and easing pressure on existing airports. The strong initial passenger turnout reflects confidence in the new airport and positions it as a key catalyst for aviation growth in western India.
