Mumbai: The wait is almost over. The Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), one of India most ambitious infrastructure projects, is set to be inaugurated on October 8, marking a new chapter in India aviation growth.
On Wednesday, Gautam Adani, Chairman of the Adani Group, described the project as a “monument shaped by thousands of hands and hearts,” paying tribute to the workers, engineers, women staff, differently-abled colleagues, and security teams who brought the airport to life.
Gautam Adani Tribute to Workers
In a heartfelt post on social media platform X, Adani shared his gratitude:
“Ahead of the inauguration of Navi Mumbai International Airport on Oct 8, I met with our differently-abled colleagues, construction workers, women staff, engineers, artisans, fire fighters, and guards who helped bring this vision to life. I felt the pulse of a living wonder — a monument shaped by thousands of hands and hearts.”
He added that every takeoff and landing at the airport would carry the spirit of those who built it, saying: “To them, I offer my deepest gratitude. Jai Hind.”
World-Class Facilities
The Navi Mumbai International Airport Private Limited (NMIAL) has been designed to handle both domestic and international passengers, equipped with cutting-edge features such as:
- A 3,700-metre runway capable of accommodating large commercial aircraft.
- Modern passenger terminals with advanced amenities.
- Next-generation air traffic control systems for efficient operations.
The airport has been built to handle 20 million passengers per annum (MPPA) in its initial phase, easing the burden on Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport and meeting the growing aviation demand in western India.
Strategic Location
NMIA location gives it a major advantage, with strong connectivity to ports, industrial hubs, and major cities:
- 14 km from Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT)
- 22 km from MIDC Taloja industrial area
- 32 km from Thane
- 35 km from Mumbai Port (via the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link)
- 40 km from Bhiwandi
This strategic positioning will make NMIA a key player in boosting cargo movement, passenger traffic, and regional trade.
Airlines Ready to Operate
The airport achieved a major milestone this week after receiving its Aerodrome Licence from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) — a crucial approval required to start operations.
Several airlines, including IndiGo, Akasa Air, and Air India Express, have already announced plans to operate from NMIA. Initial flights will focus on connecting major domestic cities, with international routes expected to follow soon.
A Boost to India Aviation Future
Industry experts say NMIA will play a transformative role in India aviation sector, strengthening Mumbai position as a global gateway. With its modern design, passenger-centric facilities, and strategic location, the new airport is expected to boost India connectivity, trade, and tourism.
As the countdown to October 8 begins, the Navi Mumbai International Airport stands as a symbol of ambition, resilience, and teamwork — a project that carries the spirit of thousands who built it.
