Navi Mumbai airport plans independent VVIP terminal for the elite

Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), set for a commercial launch on May 15, 2025, is planning an independent VVIP terminal for elite guests, politicians, top bureaucrats, billionaires, and more. While travelling along the length and breadth of the new airport under construction, a dedicated board detailing a VVIP terminal in the making is clearly visible.

Meanwhile, this exclusive VVIP terminal is planned as part of the airport’s third phase of expansion, set for completion by 2030, reports Hindustan Times. Construction of this terminal is expected to start by 2026 and be completed within the next four years.

Mathrubhumi could not independently verify the contents of this report. Questions to the airport’s public relations team seeking more information on the terminal were not answered as this news went to publishing.

This terminal will accommodate central and state government officials, including chief ministers, deputy chief ministers, governors, and defence personnel. The terminal will also be accessible to the families of the airport’s promoters and will handle general aviation operations separately from the main airport terminals.

Mumbai International Airport lacks a dedicated VVIP terminal; to make up for this, the Adani Group aims to provide an exclusive and secure space for dignitaries and high-profile travellers. The eligibility criteria for its use will be determined at a later stage.

The airport has taken a major step towards becoming operational with the publication of the Aeronautical Information Publication Supplement (AIPS) by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and has already submitted an application for the aerodrome licence to the DGCA. As of February 26, DGCA has confirmed that 90% of the airport work is complete.

Airlines are preparing for operations at NMIA, with Air India planning to conduct test flights in April.

The airport’s initial phase will include a terminal with a capacity of 20 million passengers annually, with expectations to handle approximately 9 million domestic and 3 million international travellers. A second terminal, with a capacity of 30 million passengers per year, is planned for completion by 2028.

Additionally, NMIA will feature a “Code E” taxiway connecting the runway to the VVIP, defence, and general aviation aprons. This taxiway will accommodate large aircraft, including Boeing 747s and Airbus A380s.

The third phase of expansion will also include the construction of the airport’s permanent Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower near Terminal 2. This facility will oversee air traffic, aircraft movements on the ground, and runway operations. An interim ATC tower will also be in place to serve as a backup in case of emergencies.