Who Will Operate the First Flight from Gautam Adani's Navi Mumbai Airport? The Decision is Out!

Ajjay Bhagyakar
May 30
4 min read

India’s Next Aviation Marvel: Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA)

Mumbai, one of India's most vibrant and densely populated cities, is about to welcome a game-changing infrastructure addition — the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA). Developed by the Adani Group, this world-class airport is poised to revolutionize the country’s aviation landscape and meet the ever-growing demands of both domestic and international air travel.

With an investment of approximately $2.1 billion, NMIA is not just another airport — it's a vision brought to life. Designed in the shape of a lotus flower, India’s national flower, the terminal reflects the cultural ethos of the country while showcasing modern architecture and sustainable design.

The Big Reveal: Who Will Take the First Flight?

It’s official — IndiGo Airlines will be the first carrier to operate commercial flights from Navi Mumbai International Airport. This announcement was made jointly by IndiGo and Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL).

Starting from Day One, IndiGo plans to operate 18 flights to over 15 destinations from NMIA. This isn’t just a launch — it marks a new chapter in India’s aviation growth story.

What’s Next for IndiGo?

By November 2025, IndiGo will increase its flights to 79 per day, including 14 international routes.
By March 2026, the number of flights is expected to cross 100 per day.

What to Expect by November 2026?

According to AAHL, by November 2026, the airport is projected to handle 140 daily flights, including 30 international departures. These numbers signal the birth of a new global aviation hub — right here in Navi Mumbai.

This level of connectivity will significantly boost India's status in the international aviation market and offer travelers enhanced accessibility and convenience.

The IndiGo–Adani Collaboration

IndiGo’s CEO Pieter Elbers expressed confidence in the partnership, stating, “This collaboration highlights our shared vision for the future of air travel in India. Our expanded operations at NMIA will offer travelers a seamless, affordable, and punctual flying experience.”

Meanwhile, Arun Bansal, CEO of AAHL, emphasized that the partnership is a step toward transforming NMIA into a major transfer hub for both domestic and international travelers. “Together, we are ready to redefine the air travel experience for millions,” he said.

Why Navi Mumbai Airport is a Game Changer

Mumbai’s existing airport — Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport — is currently operating beyond its capacity. With over 21 million people in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, the need for a second airport has been long overdue.

NMIA will initially operate with one terminal capable of handling 20 million passengers per year.
Based on demand, this capacity can be expanded to 90 million passengers annually over the next decade.
The airport is designed with multiple runways and multi-terminal capabilities, rivaling international airports in Dubai, Singapore, and London.

Upcoming Aerotropolis: Economic Growth Around the Airport

The airport isn’t just about flights. The local administration is planning an aerotropolis (aero-city) around NMIA. This development will include business hubs, hotels, logistics parks, and real estate opportunities — turning the airport zone into a commercial and economic magnet.

For investors and developers, this offers a golden opportunity. With increased footfall, infrastructure upgrades, and seamless connectivity, the area around NMIA is set to become a property hotspot.

Real Estate Boom: A Prime Investment Opportunity

As NMIA nears completion, the surrounding areas are witnessing a sharp rise in real estate interest. Whether it’s residential, commercial, or mixed-use spaces, Griha Realty is at the forefront of helping clients invest in the most strategic locations near the airport.

Being close to NMIA means:

Higher appreciation potential
Better rental yields
Excellent connectivity to Mumbai, Pune, and other key cities

If you’re considering investing in property that offers long-term growth, now is the time — before prices skyrocket post-launch.

Final Thoughts

The upcoming launch of Navi Mumbai International Airport is more than just a milestone for the city — it’s a transformative moment for India’s aviation and infrastructure sectors. With IndiGo taking the first flight, and plans to scale rapidly, the airport is all set to become a key global transit point.

As the city expands eastward, the airport zone is becoming the next big hub for commerce, travel, and residential development. Whether you are a homebuyer or an investor, this is the moment to act.

Looking to invest in prime property near Navi Mumbai International Airport? Reach out to Griha Realty today and explore our curated property options tailored for maximum ROI and long-term value. Real Estate Boom: A Prime Investment Opportunity

One of the most high-potential locations in this region is Pushpak Nagar.Pushpak Nagar presents one of the best real estate investment opportunities today. If you invest here now, you can expect excellent returns — with projections indicating up to a 60% return on investment over the next 3 years.

The location benefits from: