The Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) has completed its runway construction, with a trial flight scheduled for October 5, attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. CIDCO chairman Sanjay Shirsat expressed optimism about the project, anticipating domestic operations by March 2025 and international flights by June 2025. Developed by Adani Airports and CIDCO, NMIA will feature four terminals and is expected to alleviate pressure on Mumbai's existing airport.
With the runway construction for the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) now complete, a trial flight is scheduled for October 5. This announcement was made by CIDCO chairman Sanjay Shirsat following his site inspection of the airport last week,
The airport, currently under construction, will undergo this crucial test with Indian Air Force planes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend the trial, marking a significant milestone in the airport's development. Shirsat expressed satisfaction with the project's progress and is hopeful that the test will go as planned, paving the way for the airport to begin domestic operations by March 2025 and international flights by June 2025.
The NMIA will feature four terminals, two parallel runways, and ample parking space. Developed by Adani Airports in partnership with CIDCO under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, the airport spans 1,160 hectares. Shirsat noted that the upcoming test with IAF planes is crucial for ensuring the airport meets international standards. He mentioned that the success of this test will determine the airport's readiness for the next phase of operations and that, once operational, it will help alleviate pressure on Mumbai's existing airport. The project is estimated to cost INR16,700 crore.
In the meantime, the Airports Authority of India completed Instrument Landing System (ILS) testing last month, calibrating the flight path to ensure the airport's operational readiness. NMIA is a greenfield project set to become Mumbai's second international aviation hub, especially as the existing airport nears its maximum capacity.
In conclusion, the successful completion of the runway and upcoming trial flight marks a pivotal moment for NMIA, positioning it as a vital addition to Mumbai's aviation landscape. With substantial investments and strategic planning, the airport aims to enhance capacity and efficiency in response to growing air travel demands in the region.