December 26, 2025: The start of commercial flight operations at the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) is expected to act as a powerful catalyst for infrastructure expansion and real estate growth across Navi Mumbai and its surrounding regions, according to analysts and industry executives.
Several large-scale infrastructure projects in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) have gathered momentum alongside the airport’s launch. Key developments include the Atal Setu (Mumbai Trans Harbour Link), the Alibaug–Virar Multimodal Corridor, the Mumbai–Navi Mumbai Metro, and enhanced road links to the Mumbai–Pune Expressway. Together, these projects are strengthening regional connectivity and significantly reducing travel times between business hubs, residential zones, and the new airport.
Improved infrastructure is already translating into rising demand for housing, spanning both mid-income and luxury segments. Industry experts note that residential interest is not limited to areas immediately surrounding NMIA, but is spreading across well-connected micro-markets in Navi Mumbai and beyond.
Mohit Malhotra, Founder & CEO, NeoLiv, said, “The commencement of the first commercial flight marks a decisive moment for the expanded MMR, setting in motion a new phase of regional growth. While micro-markets closest to NMIA will benefit immediately, its larger impact will unfold across strategically connected locations such as Khopoli.”
Highlighting the strategic importance of emerging locations, he added, “Positioned along the Mumbai–Pune Expressway, Khopoli stands to gain from improved accessibility, rising economic activity, and expanding employment corridors linked to the airport ecosystem. We see this as a pivotal opportunity to shape thoughtfully planned residential destinations.”
“Locations within a 45-minute radius of NMIA offer a rare convergence of connectivity, affordability, and lifestyle value, making them compelling choices for both homebuyers and long-term investors,” he said.
Real estate data indicates that property prices across major Navi Mumbai micro-markets have risen between 15% and 35% year-on-year over the past 12 months, with the strongest appreciation seen in areas closest to the airport. Additionally, the rise of work-from-home and hybrid work models has driven demand for second and weekend homes in destinations such as Karjat, Khopoli, Navi Mumbai, and Alibaug, reinforcing the region’s growing appeal as both a residential and investment hub.
