Mumbai: Mumbai is set to make aviation history as Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) on Wednesday (October 8), positioning the city among a select global group—including London, New York, and Tokyo—that boast multiple international airports.

Developed under a public–private partnership between Adani Airport Holdings and CIDCO (City and Industrial Development Corporation of Maharashtra Ltd), the state-of-the-art airport is expected to begin commercial operations in December. Here’s a look at seven key facts about India’s next-generation aviation gateway.

1. India’s first fully digital airport

NMIA will be the first airport in India to operate entirely through digital systems—from AI-enabled baggage tracking and online immigration to pre-booked parking slots and automated boarding. Passengers will receive real-time notifications, ensuring a smooth and “anxiety-free” travel experience.

2. Massive passenger capacity

The airport’s initial phase will feature one runway and one terminal, handling 20 million passengers annually.

Once fully operational, with two runways and four terminals, NMIA will cater to 155 million passengers every year, making it one of the largest airports in Asia.

3. ₹19,650-crore mega project

Built at an estimated cost of ₹19,650 crore, the project combines sustainability and advanced technology to reduce congestion at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.

4. Major employment boost

NMIA is projected to create over two lakh jobs across sectors, including aviation, logistics, IT, hospitality, and real estate—making it a cornerstone for Maharashtra’s economic growth.

5. Airlines ready for takeoff

Leading carriers such as IndiGo, Air India Express, and Akasa Air have confirmed plans to start operations, connecting Navi Mumbai to major domestic and international destinations.

6. Commercial flights from December

The airport will commence operations in December, initially running 12 hours daily. Officials said about 40% of early operations will be international flights, which will gradually increase to 75% as capacity expands.

7. Multi-modal connectivity

NMIA is designed as India’s first integrated transport hub, directly connected to expressways, metro and suburban rail lines, and even water transport services, ensuring seamless movement within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.

Arun Bansal, CEO of Adani Airports Holdings Ltd, described the project as “India’s most anxiety-free airport”, highlighting its automation-driven systems and digital-first design.

When operations begin later this year, Navi Mumbai International Airport will not just decongest Mumbai—it will redefine India’s aviation landscape.