• Source:JND
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Navi Mumbai Airport: The much-awaited Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) is finally ready to open, bringing relief to travellers tired of congestion at Mumbai’s existing airport. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the new airport on October 8, 2025, marking a major step in India’s aviation growth.

Developed by Navi Mumbai International Airport Ltd, the project is led by the Adani Group, which holds a 74 per cent stake, while CIDCO (City and Industrial Development Corporation) owns the remaining 26 per cent. The airport has also been given the global code NMI by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and airlines have already started using the code for bookings.

Navi Mumbai Flight Operations And Ticket Sales

According to officials, ticket sales are expected to begin by the end of October. In the initial phase, NMIA will handle 8 to 10 flights every morning, with plans to gradually expand the capacity to 20 to 30 flights per hour as passenger demand grows. Major airlines, including IndiGo, Akasa Air and Air India Express, are among the first to begin operations. IndiGo has already confirmed readiness for the inaugural flight.

Navi Mumbai Airport Connectivity And Access Routes

Although some infrastructure work is still in progress, the airport will be temporarily accessible through the Belapur-Ulwe route. The Atal Setu, Thane Unnat Marg and Metro Line 8 are under development to provide better long-term connectivity.

For now, commuters from Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Mumbai and nearby suburbs can reach NMIA using the Eastern Expressway via Mulund, Airoli, or Thane-Kalwa-Vitawa-Digha-Nerul-Belapur-Ulwe Road, which is roughly 35 to 40 km away. Travellers from western suburbs can use the Western Expressway via JVLR and Vashi Creek Bridge, covering a distance of 40 to 45 km. Those travelling from Worli can reach the airport through Atal Setu and Ulwe-Belapur.

Bus Services To NMIA

The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) will soon launch 50 air-conditioned buses to connect the airport directly with Vashi, Thane, and Mumbai, offering an affordable public transport option for fliers.

Navi Mumbai Airport: A Tribute To DB Patil

The airport has been named after Loknete Dinkar Balu (DB) Patil, a farmer leader known for championing the rights of families displaced during Navi Mumbai’s development. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the name represents justice for local communities and acknowledges Patil’s lifelong struggle.

Navi Mumbai Airport Operational Timeline

The airport’s commercial operations are expected to start by December 2025, according to CIDCO Vice-Chairman and Managing Director Vijay Singhal. Once operational, NMIA will serve as the second major airport in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, easing pressure on the existing Mumbai airport and improving travel convenience for passengers across western India.