Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), developed by the Adani Group, is preparing to begin international passenger and cargo operations from July 15, marking a significant milestone in the airport’s phased expansion. The greenfield facility, which serves as the second major airport in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), launched domestic commercial services in December last year and is now gearing up for international connectivity.
Speaking at a logistics industry event, NMIAL Chief Executive Officer BVJK Sharma said the airport intends to commence international freighter services from July 15, with cargo traffic expected to gradually scale up to nearly 18 flights per week. International passenger operations are also targeted to begin on the same date, subject to the completion of remaining regulatory approvals.
According to Sharma, progress has been made on the passenger services front, with Air India Express and IndiGo expected to operate international routes from the airport. The addition of overseas services is anticipated to enhance connectivity for the Mumbai region while helping reduce pressure on the existing international gateway, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.
Airport officials stated that customs authorities have already reviewed the facility’s preparedness for international operations. A senior representative of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) recently inspected the airport, and the necessary notifications have been issued. Sharma noted that the remaining procedures, including customs-related requirements for cargo and courier services, are currently being finalised. A trade notice from customs is expected around July 5.
Since commencing domestic operations, the airport has witnessed steady growth in passenger and flight activity. It currently handles approximately 20,000 passengers daily and around 150 aircraft movements, including arrivals and departures, each day. Airport authorities project daily passenger traffic to rise to nearly 50,000 by the end of the year, while aircraft movements are expected to increase to around 380 per day.
The airport recently gained global recognition after being included in the Prix Versailles World’s Most Beautiful Airports 2026 list, alongside aviation hubs in Guangzhou, Frankfurt, Kandal Stueng in Cambodia, Pittsburgh and San Diego.
Widely regarded as a key infrastructure project for the MMR, Navi Mumbai International Airport is expected to play an important role in supporting the region’s growing aviation, logistics and economic requirements as passenger and cargo demand continues to expand.
Source: Prop News Time
