June 26, 2025:
A Maharashtra Assembly panel has inspected the under-construction Navi Mumbai International Airport to evaluate progress, inter-agency coordination, and adherence to recommendations outlined by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG). The visit, conducted by the Assembly’s Public Enterprises Committee on 25 June, comes ahead of the airport’s anticipated late 2025 operational launch.
The committee, led by senior legislators, visited the Ulwe site to assess key infrastructure including the runway, terminal buildings, airside facilities, and approach roads. Their inspection followed CAG concerns about possible delays and coordination gaps among multiple authorities. The panel’s objective was to ensure construction timelines and institutional responsibilities remain aligned.
Officials expressed satisfaction with the execution so far, highlighting sound planning and timely implementation. Phase one of the airport is designed to handle 20 million passengers annually and will be integrated with roads, suburban rail, and metro networks to decongest Mumbai’s existing airport and catalyse regional development.
Major components such as the runway, apron, taxiways, and ATC tower are either complete or in final stages, with regulatory approvals from DGCA and BCAS progressing. Trials have included test landings by military and commercial aircraft. Terminal and landside works are advancing in parallel.
CIDCO and Adani Airport Holdings have been conducting bi-weekly review meetings since April, focusing on ORAT (Operational Readiness and Airport Transfer) exercises to ensure readiness and compliance. However, stakeholders caution that coordination risks and shifting regulatory timelines could still pose delays.
The committee’s visit signals a shift towards proactive infrastructure oversight in Maharashtra. With Phase 1 on track, the airport is seen as a critical piece of sustainable urban expansion. The panel’s verdict: commendable progress and planning, but continued vigilance will be essential to meet the operational target of late 2025.
