Mumbai: Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) is expected to commence international passenger and cargo operations from July 15, marking a major milestone in the development of India's newest aviation hub and providing additional capacity for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The launch remains subject to the receipt of final regulatory approvals.
Speaking on the sidelines of the BCBA Logistics Conclave 2026 in Mumbai, NMIA Chairman Capt. B.V.J.K. Sharma said the airport is targeting the start of international passenger flights and dedicated cargo freighter services from mid-July.
"We are planning to start international operations from July 15, subject to obtaining the necessary approvals," Sharma said. He added that international cargo freighter operations are also expected to begin simultaneously.
The move is expected to significantly enhance Mumbai's aviation capacity by complementing operations at the existing Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, which has been operating close to its capacity limits. Industry experts believe the addition of international services at Navi Mumbai will ease congestion while improving connectivity for passengers and cargo operators.
Sharma also outlined ambitious expansion plans for the airport. While the first phase has been designed to handle around 20 million passengers annually, the airport aims to increase capacity to 50 million passengers in subsequent phases. Long-term plans envision expanding annual passenger handling capacity to 90 million, positioning NMIA among India's largest airports.
On the cargo front, the airport is expected to emerge as a major logistics gateway for western India. The commencement of international freighter operations is seen as a crucial step in developing Navi Mumbai into a multimodal cargo and distribution hub, supported by road, rail and port connectivity.
The airport has already established itself as a domestic aviation gateway since commercial operations began late last year. With international services now on the horizon, NMIA is poised to play a pivotal role in meeting the rapidly growing air travel and cargo demand in the Mumbai region.
16/06/2026
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