Navi Mumbai International Airport Inaugurated: A New Gateway to India’s Financial Capital

Mumbai, India — Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday inaugurated the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), marking a historic milestone as the city’s second airport after the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA).

Located in Ulwe, Navi Mumbai, approximately 37 km from South Mumbai, the new airport is set to significantly enhance connectivity, trade, and infrastructure within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).

In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi wrote:

“On the way to Navi Mumbai to take part in the inauguration of Phase-1 of the Navi Mumbai International Airport. With this, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region will get its second major international airport, thus boosting commerce and connectivity. The final phase of the Mumbai Metro Line-3 will also be inaugurated. We are committed to enhancing Mumbai’s infrastructure and improving the ‘Ease of Living’ for the people of this dynamic city.”

Key Highlights of the Navi Mumbai International Airport

• ₹19,650 crore – Total cost of Phase 1

• 1,160 hectares – Total project area

• Lotus-inspired design – Futuristic architecture symbolizing India’s national flower

• 9 crore passengers per year – Handling capacity upon full completion

• 3.25 million metric tonnes (MMT) – Annual cargo capacity

• 3,700 metres – Runway length

• Primary Objective – To decongest air traffic at CSMIA

Infrastructure and Facilities

In its initial phase, NMIA features a single integrated terminal serving both domestic and international passengers. The project’s master plan envisions four terminals and two parallel runways, both ‘Code F’ compliant, each measuring 3,700m x 60m.

• Initial capacity: 20 million passengers annually (MPPA)

• Cargo capacity: 0.5 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA)

• IATA/ICAO Code: NMI / VANM

Passenger Experience and Amenities

NMIA aims to redefine passenger comfort and experience. The airport offers:

• CIP lounges accommodating up to 500 passengers

• Dedicated kids’ play zone for domestic departures

• Immersive digital tunnels and kinetic art installations depicting Mumbai, Maharashtra, and Indian heritage

• Transit day hotel with 80 rooms for short stays

• Premium baggage services, including home-to-destination luggage delivery, baggage repair, and wrapping facilities

• Pranaam meet-and-greet services and special arrival zones for passengers and visitors

Architectural Excellence

Designed by the world-renowned Zaha Hadid Architects, the airport’s lotus-inspired structure reflects a blend of modernity and tradition. The architectural concept also pays tribute to India’s rich cultural heritage while incorporating world-class design aesthetics.

Technology and Innovation

The Navi Mumbai International Airport is envisioned as a smart, next-generation hub, equipped with:

• 5G connectivity and Digi Yatra-enabled contactless processing

• Zero manual ID or boarding pass checks

• Smart traffic management systems

• Automated baggage handling and communication systems

With its striking design, advanced facilities, and focus on sustainability and passenger convenience, the Navi Mumbai International Airport stands as a transformative infrastructure project — reinforcing Mumbai’s status as a global aviation and commercial hub.