The Air India Group has announced that it will begin services from the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) with 20 daily flights.
These flights will be run by the low-cost carrier Air India Express, connecting 15 Indian cities in the first phase.
Plans to Expand to 60 Daily Flights
Over the next two years, the group plans to expand operations in a big way. By mid-2026, it expects to operate 55 daily flights, including five international routes, and reach 60 daily departures (120 aircraft movements) by Winter 2026.
Experts also believe that full-service carrier Air India may join operations as the network grows.
Boost to Mumbai’s Dual-Airport System
With the launch of NMIA, Mumbai will become the first Indian metro city to operate a dual-airport system, helping reduce congestion at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.
Campbell Wilson, CEO of Air India, said the group will work closely with Adani Airports to build NMIA into a key hub for both domestic and international passengers as well as cargo.
Rising Competition Among Airlines
Even before Air India’s announcement, IndiGo and Akasa Air had shared their plans for NMIA.
IndiGo will begin with 18 daily flights and later expand to 140, while Akasa Air will start with 15 daily flights and increase to 350 weekly services, including international operations.
Airport Capacity and Sustainability Goals
Spread across 1,160 hectares, NMIA will initially manage 20 million passengers and 0.5 million tonnes of cargo every year, eventually expanding to handle 90 million passengers.
Designed with inspiration from the lotus flower, the airport will feature renewable energy use and eco-friendly infrastructure, aligning with global sustainability targets.
A New Era for Western India’s Aviation
With overlapping passenger catchment areas with Mumbai airport, NMIA will serve as an extension to meet rising travel demand.
Experts believe its phased growth and strategic location will make it one of the busiest and most important aviation hubs in India in the coming years.
