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The much-anticipated Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), initially slated to open by the end of March, will now commence commercial operations in May 2024. This announcement follows the successful completion of a crucial validation flight on Sunday, April 14th, where an IndiGo A320 successfully landed at the airport. This marks a significant milestone, signaling the airport's readiness for public use. The validation flight involved a series of technical assessments and maneuvers over the Karjat and Pen regions, culminating in a smooth touchdown on runway 08-26. The data gathered from this test flight will be submitted to the aviation regulator for approval of the necessary aerodrome license, a prerequisite for official commercial operation.
The airport's initial phase will focus on domestic flights, gradually expanding to include international services by the end of July. While the initial passenger handling capacity is projected at 10-12 million passengers per annum (ppa), the NMIA is designed for significant future growth. The airport's phase-1 terminal building boasts a capacity of 20 million ppa, comparable to current annual passenger figures for airports like Chennai and Kolkata. By mid-2026, the airport expects to reach this 20 million ppa capacity, with further expansion plans underway. A second terminal, with a capacity of 30 million ppa, is scheduled for completion by the end of 2028, indicating a long-term vision for handling substantial passenger traffic.
The opening of NMIA is expected to alleviate the strain on the heavily congested Mumbai airport, which currently operates with a single runway. Arun Bansal, CEO of Adani Airport Holdings Ltd, highlighted that approximately 15 million passengers from the Mumbai region currently travel to other airports or nearby states. The new airport presents a compelling opportunity for airlines to tap into this significant passenger base, fostering increased connectivity and convenience for travelers. While all domestic airlines are anticipated to maintain operations at both airports, some international carriers with limited flight schedules may consolidate their services at either Mumbai or Navi Mumbai, further optimizing flight operations and passenger flow.
A key aspect of the NMIA’s success will depend on efficient last-mile connectivity. While significant improvements in highway infrastructure have been made, the airport's management team remains focused on improving last-mile connectivity. A proposal for a new Metro line connecting Navi Mumbai to the existing Mumbai airport is currently under consideration, reflecting a broader commitment to seamless and accessible transportation solutions. The airport authority emphasizes that these connectivity improvements will be in place before the commencement of commercial operations, ensuring a smoother passenger experience from the outset.
The NMIA represents a significant investment in infrastructure, incorporating modern amenities such as biometrics and seamless connectivity between terminals. Built on undeveloped land, the airport's design showcases a commitment to both efficiency and modern technology. Its launch is not only a significant step in enhancing air travel connectivity in the Mumbai region but also reflects the ongoing development and modernization of India's aviation infrastructure. The smooth landing of the validation flight and the detailed plans for future expansion suggest a well-organized and forward-looking approach to airport management, hinting at potential future growth and economic benefits for the region.
Source: After first civilian test flight landing, Navi Mumbai airport set for May ops