Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar recently announced that the new Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) is set to commence domestic operations from April. According to Pawar, nearly 85% of the airport’s construction is complete, and trial runs have already taken place.
The upcoming airport will also feature a dedicated VVIP terminal to serve prominent figures like movie stars, top business tycoons, government officials, including governors and chief ministers, as well as defense personnel.
Navi Mumbai International Airport to Begin Domestic Flights
The upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) is set to begin domestic flight operations in April 2025, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar announced during the state budget presentation. He also mentioned that the construction of the airport is 85% complete, and successful trial runs have already been conducted.
Located in Ulwe, Navi Mumbai, the new airport spans 1,160 hectares and is designed to manage a significant passenger and cargo load. Once fully operational, NMIA will have the capacity to handle 90 million passengers and 2.6 million tonnes of cargo annually. This large-scale infrastructure project aims to reduce the traffic burden on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) in Mumbai and improve connectivity for travelers.
In addition to the airport update, Pawar announced plans for improved transportation links. A new metro route connecting CSMIA with NMIA will be developed soon, providing seamless travel between the two major airports. This metro link is expected to reduce travel time and offer a convenient option for passengers.
Pawar also revealed plans for enhancing air connectivity in Maharashtra. He stated that Shirdi Airport will soon be equipped with a night landing facility, improving flight schedules and accommodating more travelers.
Further expanding the region’s infrastructure, Pawar proposed a third airport for Mumbai near Vadhvan Port in Palghar district to meet future travel demands. Additionally, he announced that the much-awaited Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train station will be constructed near Vadhvan Port, further boosting regional connectivity.
These developments mark a significant step toward improving Maharashtra’s transportation network, catering to the growing travel and cargo needs in the region.
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Mumbai Airport Terminal 1 to Close for Renovation in 2025
The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai will temporarily close its Terminal 1 for renovation starting in November 2025. The renovation aims to enhance the terminal’s capacity to manage 20 million passengers annually, marking a 42% increase from its current limit.
According to Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL), the renovation will be carried out in phases. The initial phase will involve demolishing the existing structure to make way for a modernized terminal. The new design will include improved infrastructure, better passenger amenities, and enhanced security features to ensure smoother operations.
During the renovation period, travelers who usually fly from Terminal 1 will be redirected to Terminal 2 or the newly constructed Navi Mumbai International Airport. Authorities have assured that proper arrangements will be made to minimize disruptions and ensure a seamless travel experience for passengers.
The redevelopment project is expected to be completed by 2029. Once finished, the upgraded Terminal 1 will be better equipped to manage the growing air traffic in Mumbai, ensuring improved comfort, safety, and efficiency for travelers.
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FAQs
Q.1. When will Navi Mumbai International Airport start domestic flights?
Ans. Navi Mumbai International Airport is expected to commence domestic flight operations in April 2025.
Q.2. What percentage of the NMIA construction is complete?
Ans. Approximately 85% of the Navi Mumbai International Airport’s construction is finished, with successful trial runs already conducted.
Q.3. When will Mumbai Airport Terminal 1 close for renovation?
Ans. Mumbai Airport’s Terminal 1 will close for renovation in November 2025 to improve capacity and facilities.
Q.4. Where will Terminal 1 passengers be redirected during the renovation?
Ans. During the renovation, passengers will be redirected to Terminal 2 or the Navi Mumbai International Airport.
Q.5. When is Mumbai Airport Terminal 1 expected to reopen?
Ans. The upgraded Terminal 1 is expected to reopen by 2029, with an increased capacity to manage 20 million passengers annually.
