Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) is entering a new phase of operations with the launch of its first scheduled international flight.
From July 15, Air India Express will begin direct flights between Navi Mumbai and Abu Dhabi, making it the airport’s first international destination.
The airline will operate the route three times a week, giving travelers from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region another convenient option for flying to the UAE.
Air India Express Begins International Services
The international service comes less than 200 days after NMIA started domestic operations on December 25, 2025.
Arun Bansal, CEO of Adani Airport Holdings Ltd., said the launch marks an important milestone for the airport.
He added that NMIA plans to expand its international network with more airline partners and destinations while focusing on smooth operations and a world-class travel experience.
Air India Express Chairman Nipun Aggarwal said the new Abu Dhabi route supports the airline’s dual-airport strategy, with Navi Mumbai complementing services from Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.
Airport Has Already Served Over 2.3 Million Passengers
Since opening its domestic operations, Navi Mumbai International Airport has expanded rapidly.
So far, the airport has:
Connected 46 domestic destinations
Served more than 2.3 million passengers
Handled around 150 flight movements every day
These numbers highlight the growing importance of NMIA as a major aviation hub for the Mumbai region.
More International Routes Expected Soon
The first international flight will also carry the airport’s first overseas shipment of perishable goods, giving exporters better access to global markets and strengthening NMIA’s cargo operations.
Following the launch of the Abu Dhabi route, several more international destinations are expected to be added in the coming weeks as airlines expand their overseas services from the airport.
In its first phase, Navi Mumbai International Airport has been designed to handle 20 million passengers annually.
Once all phases are completed, its capacity is expected to increase to 90 million passengers per year, helping reduce congestion at Mumbai’s existing airport and improving air connectivity for travelers.
