Tag Archives: Navi Mumbai International Airport

PM Modi Inaugurates ₹19,646 Crore Navi Mumbai International Airport; Fadnavis Says Project Will Boost Maharashtra’s GDP By 1%

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Prime Minister Modi Inaugurates First Phase of Navi Mumbai International Airport

Mumbai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first phase of the much-awaited Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) on Wednesday, seven years after laying its foundation stone. Developed at a cost of Rs 19,646 crore, the project is being hailed as a milestone in India’s aviation infrastructure.

Asia’s Largest Connectivity Hub

Calling NMIA Asia’s biggest connectivity hub, PM Modi said the airport marks the beginning of a new era for Maharashtra and the country’s aviation sector. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis claimed that the project would increase the state’s GDP by 1%.

The Prime Minister landed at the airport at 2:45 p.m., inaugurating it through a digital toran ceremony at the terminal entrance. He then toured the state-of-the-art facility along with Governor Acharya Devvrat, Deputy Chief Ministers Ajit Pawar and Eknath Shinde, Union Civil Aviation Minister K.R.M. Naidu, MoS Murlidhar Mohol, and industrialist Gautam Adani, whose company developed the project in partnership with CIDCO.

Modi also interacted with a group of specially-abled individuals operating a food outlet at the terminal.

Connecting Farmers and Fisherfolk to Global Markets

After inaugurating India’s first twin-aviation hub, PM Modi said NMIA would directly connect Maharashtra’s farmers and fisherfolk with international supply chains, including supermarkets in Europe and the Middle East. He emphasized that the new infrastructure would reduce logistical costs for small and micro enterprises, spur investment, and generate new industries and jobs.

“Mumbai’s long wait ends here. NMIA bears the reflection of a Viksit Bharat. It is a lotus blooming on the land of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj,” he said, referring to the airport’s lotus-inspired design.

Part of Mumbai’s Dual-Airport System

NMIA is envisioned as part of a dual-airport system for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), complementing Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) in Sahar. With an initial capacity of 20 million passengers per annum, the airport will eventually handle 90 million passengers, making it one of India’s largest airports.

The first two phases will feature one runway and a single terminal, before scaling up to four runways and multiple terminals.

Fadnavis Credits Modi for Fast-Tracking Clearances

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis recalled that the airport had been conceptualized in the 1990s but remained stalled for decades. “For years, there was only a board displaying the airport’s name. When PM Modi reviewed the project, seven of eight pending permissions were cleared in the first meeting,” he said.

Fadnavis also highlighted that NMIA will be India’s first airport connected by water taxis, further enhancing multi-modal transport options.

Aviation Growth and Future Projects

Union Civil Aviation Minister K.R.M. Naidu noted that since 2014, Mumbai’s domestic air traffic has risen by 70% and international traffic by 50%. The government now aims to triple annual passenger traffic from 5 crore to 15 crore.

He also announced plans for the country’s first offshore airport near the upcoming Vadhavan Port in Palghar, marking another milestone in Maharashtra’s aviation infrastructure.

“India’s financial capital is now also its aviation capital. With NMIA, airlines will no longer struggle for slots — every Mumbaikar will feel proud of this achievement,” Naidu added.

Public-Private Partnership Between CIDCO and Adani Group

The airport has been developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model between the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) and Adani Airport Holdings Ltd (AAHL), holding 26% and 74% equity stakes, respectively.

CIDCO oversaw planning, land acquisition, rehabilitation, and pre-development work, while AAHL is responsible for development and operations.

Legacy of Visionaries Behind the Project

Several former CIDCO managing directors and chairmen attended the inauguration, many of whom contributed to NMIA’s inception.

Former CIDCO MD Sanjay Bhatia (2013–2016) expressed pride in seeing the project’s completion: “It’s wonderful to see something I nurtured in its early stages come to life. During my tenure, I worked on land acquisition for this dream project,” he said.

https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/pm-modi-inaugurates-19646-crore-navi-mumbai-international-airport-fadnavis-says-project-will-boost-maharashtras-gdp-by-1

East Indians Demand Naming Of Mumbai Airport Terminal After Freedom Fighter Joseph ‘Kaka’ Baptista

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Following the government’s decision to name the Navi Mumbai International Airport after D. B. Patil, a late local leader, members of the East Indian community have now urged authorities to rename the domestic terminal of the Mumbai airport in honour of freedom fighter Joseph Baptista, one of the city’s original inhabitants.

### Call for Recognition of East Indian Heritage

The East Indian community has drawn parallels between the histories of the two airports. While the Navi Mumbai airport was constructed on land acquired from Agris, Kolis, and other local castes, the Mumbai airport too was built on farmland belonging to East Indians, who are Roman Catholic converts from the same castes.

Community members argue that the contribution of East Indians, who gave up their ancestral land for urban development, deserves similar recognition.

### Honouring an Unsung Hero

Joseph “Kaka” Baptista, a close associate of Lokmanya Tilak, was a prominent freedom fighter, lawyer at the Bombay High Court, and also served as Mayor of Bombay.

Vicky Misquitta, from the Mobai Gaothan Panchayat’s Mumbai East Indian Bhumiputra Rights project, said that renaming one of the airport terminals after Baptista would be a fitting tribute to an unsung national hero and would acknowledge the East Indian community’s sacrifices.

“The East Indian community has a rich history, and their ancestral lands, including those in the Mumbai airport, are a testament to their significant contributions to the city as its indigenous people. The 7/12 extracts serve as proof of their ownership and connection to the land,” said Misquitta.

### Appeal for Government Consideration

Alphi D’Souza, MGP chief, whose family once owned land where the Mumbai airport now stands, commended the Navi Mumbai Agri community’s efforts to have the new airport named after D. B. Patil.

He urged the government to similarly honour Kaka Baptista for his immense contribution to India’s freedom struggle and for representing the voice of Mumbai’s original inhabitants.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/east-indians-demand-naming-of-mumbai-airport-terminal-after-freedom-fighter-joseph-kaka-baptista

Maharashtra Approves Independent Navi Mumbai International Airport Police Station With 108 Posts To Boost Security

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**State Government Approves Independent Airport Police Station for Navi Mumbai International Airport**

In a significant move to bolster security around the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), the state government has approved the establishment of an independent airport police station. This new station will comprise a total of 108 posts across various ranks, ensuring a robust security presence for the sprawling airport complex.

**Funding and Expenditure**

The government has sanctioned Rs 3.38 crore as recurring expenditure and Rs 1.76 crore as non-recurring expenditure for the setup and maintenance of the new police station. These funds will help cover infrastructure, staffing, and operational costs.

**Jurisdiction and Structure**

The airport police station will be carved out by dividing the existing jurisdictions of the Panvel City and Ulwe police stations, both under the Navi Mumbai Police Commissionerate. The exact jurisdiction boundaries for Panvel, Ulwe, and the new airport police station will soon be finalized and submitted to the state government for approval.

**Airport Development and Security Needs**

The foundation stone for NMIA was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 18, 2018, at Koparbhujhe. The airport is being developed in five phases, with plans to feature four passenger terminals, two runways, a cargo truck terminal, and other vital civil and defense aviation facilities.

Once fully operational, NMIA is expected to handle an impressive capacity of 90 million passengers and 360 million metric tonnes of cargo annually. Given these large-scale operations and the critical need for stringent security measures, the establishment of an independent airport police station was deemed essential.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (HQ) Sanjay Patil stated, “Considering the large-scale operations and the need for stringent security, an independent police station was deemed essential.”

**Reorganisation of Navi Mumbai Police Commissionerate**

In July 2025, the Navi Mumbai Police Commissionerate underwent a reorganisation, resulting in the creation of Zone-3 (Belapur) by dividing the earlier Zones 1 (Vashi) and 2 (Panvel). During this restructuring process, the proposal for the airport police station was submitted to ensure efficient law enforcement at NMIA and its surrounding areas.

Following a thorough review, the State Home Department approved the proposal and issued an official Government Resolution (GR) on Monday.

**Posts and Staffing Details**

The 108 newly sanctioned posts for the airport police station are distributed as follows:

– 2 Police Inspectors
– 3 Assistant Police Inspectors
– 6 Police Sub-Inspectors
– 6 Assistant Police Sub-Inspectors
– 27 Head Constables
– 42 Constables
– 19 Women Constables
– 3 Driver Constables

**Enhancing Security and Rapid Response**

With this dedicated police station, authorities aim to enhance security, ensure rapid response to incidents, and maintain law and order in and around the Navi Mumbai International Airport. This initiative marks a major step toward safeguarding one of India’s emerging aviation hubs.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/maharashtra-approves-independent-navi-mumbai-international-airport-police-station-with-108-posts-to-boost-security

Could Navi Mumbai airport be linked to BKC via tunnel?

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By Dwaipayan Roy | Oct 07, 2025, 04:23 PM

**Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Proposes Tunnel Connecting Mumbai to Navi Mumbai International Airport**

Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has directed the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) to prepare a detailed feasibility report for a proposed tunnel that would connect Mumbai with the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport. This initiative aims to enhance travel convenience and alleviate congestion once the airport becomes operational.

The new airport, scheduled to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is expected to handle up to two crore passengers annually, marking a significant boost to the region’s aviation capacity.

### Airport Launch and Inauguration Ceremony

The inauguration ceremony is set for tomorrow, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar in attendance. The first commercial flight from the airport is anticipated to take off in December.

Officials have warned of a substantial increase in traffic following the airport’s commencement, which may put additional pressure on the existing road infrastructure.

### Strengthening Connectivity: Integrated Transport Network

To address these challenges, the government is exploring innovative ways to improve connectivity between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai. Deputy Chief Minister Shinde emphasized the need for an integrated transport network that links the new airport with suburban rail, metro corridors, and waterways.

“To ensure seamless movement, the deputy chief minister has instructed the MMRDA Commissioner to study the feasibility of constructing a tunnel connecting the Bandra-Worli Sea Link and Bandra Kurla Complex to Navi Mumbai Airport,” stated an official release.

### Transport Integration with High-Speed Rail

In addition, Shinde has asked officials to examine the possibility of integrating the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail project with major regional transport hubs. Key stations under consideration include the Mhatardi bullet train station in Thane, Kopar railway station, and Taloja Metro station.

The Mhatardi station, currently under construction in Diva, is planned as a significant transport hub that will connect bullet trains, suburban trains, metro routes, and highways. This integration aims to provide seamless connectivity across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.

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The proposed infrastructure developments are poised to transform regional travel by creating a comprehensive, interconnected transport system, ensuring easier access to the new Navi Mumbai International Airport and supporting the city’s growing transportation needs.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/shinde-asks-mmrda-to-study-feasibility-of-mumbai-navi-mumbai-tunnel/story

Navi Mumbai’s ‘Fully Digital’ International Airport Set For October 8 Inauguration By PM Modi; Flights To Commence In December

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**Navi Mumbai to Host India’s First Fully Digital Airport**

India is set to welcome its first fully digital airport with the upcoming inauguration of the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA). Scheduled to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 8, the airport is expected to commence commercial flights by December 2025, following necessary security clearances and system testing.

**Advanced Automated Features for Travelers**

In a recent media interaction, Arun Bansal, CEO of Adani Airports Holdings Ltd, showcased an array of automated, passenger-friendly features designed to enhance the travel experience. Passengers will have the convenience of pre-booking parking slots, completing online check-in, baggage drop, and even immigration processing digitally.

Innovative services like virtual queuing and real-time wait-time monitors will allow travelers to track queues and head directly to security checkpoints when their slot arrives, minimizing wait times and streamlining movement through the airport.

**Operational Details and Future Expansion Plans**

Phase I of NMIA’s operations will run daily from 8 am to 8 pm, initially supporting 8 to 10 aircraft movements per hour. As demand grows, officials plan to increase both the number of flights and potentially extend operating hours.

Bansal also revealed that the airport aims for approximately 40% international traffic at launch, with plans to scale up to nearly 75% to meet global hub standards over time.

**Future-Proof Design and Sustainability Initiatives**

The airport has been developed as a resilient and future-ready project. Key features include:

– Elevated 8.5 meters above flood levels to mitigate flooding risks
– Robust design to withstand extreme weather conditions and bird strikes
– Partial power generation via a 47 MW solar plant
– Use of electric vehicles across the airport campus
– Rainwater harvesting and wastewater reuse systems
– Automated people movers connecting the four terminals

Currently, only Terminal 1 will be operational at launch. Mumbai’s existing Terminal 1 will continue functioning until at least 2029, with its demolition planned to coincide with the completion of NMIA’s second terminal.

**Infrastructure Enhancements and Connectivity**

To manage expected passenger traffic and ease congestion, supporting infrastructure is already being prepared. Notably, there will be a ban on heavy vehicles in Navi Mumbai on October 8 from 6 am to 10 pm to facilitate smooth traffic flow during the inauguration.

Connectivity to the airport is also set to improve, with the Targhar railway station—located adjacent to NMIA—nearing completion. Services from Belapur, Seawoods, and Nerul stations are anticipated to commence soon.

**Economic Impact**

The new airport is expected to generate over 200,000 direct and indirect jobs, significantly boosting the economic growth prospects of the Navi Mumbai region.

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https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/navi-mumbais-fully-digital-international-airport-set-for-october-8-inauguration-by-pm-modi-flights-to-commence-in-december

Maharashtra CM Fadnavis Hopes Navi Mumbai Airport Will Be Named After Late Leader D. B. Patil

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**CM Fadnavis Hopes Navi Mumbai International Airport Will Be Named After Late Leader D. B. Patil**

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has expressed optimism that the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport will be named in honor of the late leader D. B. Patil from the P&W party. Recently, the state government sent a formal proposal to the Union government to endorse this naming.

“I am confident that the Union government views the proposal positively and that the process is currently underway,” said CM Fadnavis. “I believe we can name the Navi Mumbai airport after D. B. Patil.”

**Naming Issue Sparks Local Protests**

However, the naming decision has become a political flashpoint within Navi Mumbai. Communities directly affected by the airport’s development—particularly the Agri-Koli population—have been advocating strongly for the airport to bear the name of their leader, D. B. Patil.

In recent weeks, these demands have been made visible through various rallies and protests. Notably, a bike rally led by NCP MP Suresh Mhatre was organized to highlight the community’s call for recognition.

**Remembering D. B. Patil’s Legacy**

D. B. Patil was a veteran leader known for his unwavering advocacy for project-affected people (PAPs). He earned widespread respect for his relentless efforts to ensure fair compensation for lands acquired during Navi Mumbai’s development.

One of his landmark achievements was the establishment of the 12.5% developed land scheme for PAPs, a milestone that continues to benefit many families.

As discussions continue, the proposal to name the airport after D. B. Patil remains a symbol of the broader struggle for justice and recognition among Navi Mumbai’s affected communities.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/maharashtra-cm-fadnavis-hopes-navi-mumbai-airport-will-be-named-after-late-leader-d-b-patil

Navi Mumbai International Airport: Private Jet From Ahmedabad Scripts History, Becomes 1st Aircraft To Land At Greenfield Airport | Video

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Navi Mumbai’s Long-Awaited International Airport Inches Closer to Operation

Navi Mumbai’s much-anticipated international airport took a significant step towards becoming operational last weekend after a private jet from Ahmedabad made history as the first aircraft to officially land at the new greenfield facility.

The aircraft, operating under a Non-Scheduled Operator Permit (charter), touched down at 10:20 am on Saturday, September 20, before departing past noon the following day. This marked the runway’s first passenger flight operation at the airport.

A video showing the private aircraft landing went viral, catching the attention of aviation enthusiasts and industry insiders alike.

Previous Trial Runs and Current Milestone

While the airport has seen several trial runs prior to this event—including an IndiGo Airbus A320 validation flight in December 2024 to test navigation systems, and an Indian Air Force Airbus C-295’s symbolic touchdown last October without ground-based aids—this charter flight is being hailed as a key milestone. It is the first to involve an actual passenger charter service, signaling progress towards full operational status.

Airport Authority Approvals and Runway Availability

According to reports, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) granted approval for a non-scheduled passenger aircraft landing at Navi Mumbai on September 19. To facilitate this historic operation, AAI revised its previous Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), which had declared the runway closed until midnight on September 20.

The updated notification allowed the runway to remain open from 8:30 am to 11:00 am on Saturday, and again for three hours on Sunday, as reported by the Times of India.

Flight Details

The jet, a Pilatus PC-24 bearing registration VT-APV, departed Ahmedabad at 9:00 am. It flew over the Gulf of Khambhat and the Arabian Sea before entering Mumbai airspace south of the city’s busy international airport. The aircraft then approached Navi Mumbai, circled south of the new facility, and executed a smooth landing on runway 28 at 10:20 am.

It later departed back to Ahmedabad at 12:40 pm on Sunday, returning via a land route, according to the report.

Plane Spotter Captures Historic Touchdown

Plane spotter Sandeep Pilania recorded the moment on video, which quickly circulated on social media through aviation handle @hiravaero, generating excitement among aviation fans and industry experts alike.

Looking Ahead: Scheduled Commercial Services

Despite this milestone, the airport’s most crucial event is still ahead—the launch of the first scheduled commercial airline service carrying fare-paying passengers. This will mark the official commissioning of Navi Mumbai International Airport and play a vital role in reducing congestion at Mumbai’s over-capacity Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to inaugurate the airport and its terminal building on September 30. Following the inauguration, security clearances and operational procedures will continue over the next few months, with the first commercial flights anticipated soon thereafter.

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https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/navi-mumbai-international-airport-private-jet-from-ahmedabad-scripts-history-becomes-1st-aircraft-to-land-at-greenfield-airport-video