PM Modi inaugurates NMIA – India’s new gateway to the West

By Admin

09 Oct, 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA)   a landmark greenfield project that marks a transformative chapter in India’s aviation sector. Designed to redefine air connectivity across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) and Western India, NMIA is set to position Navi Mumbai as a global aviation and logistics hub.

A Modern Engineering Marvel
Developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, NMIA is operated by Navi Mumbai International Airport Pvt. Ltd. (NMIAL)   a joint venture between Adani Airports Holdings Ltd. (74%) and the City and Industrial Development Corporation of Maharashtra Ltd. (CIDCO) (26%). Located in Ulwe, just 37 km from South Mumbai, the airport spans 1,160 hectares (2,866 acres). Its architectural design, inspired by India’s national flower, the lotus, features 12 sculptural columns representing unfolding petals and 17 mega-columns supporting the terminal’s vast canopies.

World-Class Infrastructure
The first phase, inaugurated by PM Modi, includes a single integrated terminal capable of handling 20 million passengers per annum (MPPA). Upon completion, NMIA’s total capacity will expand to 90 MPPA, supported by two parallel Code F-compliant runways, each 3,700 metres long and 60 metres wide.

Terminal 1 is equipped with 66 check-in counters, 22 self-baggage drop points, 29 aerobridges, and 10 bus gates, enabling a smooth and contactless passenger journey. Its cargo complex, with an initial capacity of 0.5 million metric tonnes annually, boasts automated cargo handling systems, digital shipment tracking, and paperless documentation. Dedicated areas cater to temperature-sensitive cargo, express and drone logistics, and secure enclosures for valuables and live animals.

Smart and Sustainable Infrastructure
As India’s first 5G-enabled smart airport, NMIA leverages Digi Yatra-based contactless processing, IoT-driven real-time operations, and AI-based security systems to offer zero manual ID verification. Through the Adani OneApp, passengers can access digital retail, dining, and lounge services.

The airport hosts over 110 retail and F&B outlets, premium CIP lounges accommodating 500 passengers, and an 80-room transit hotel. Passenger convenience is further enhanced with baggage wrapping, delivery services, and automated guidance systems.

Sustainability lies at NMIA’s core. The airport incorporates 47 MW of solar power, rainwater harvesting, wastewater recycling, and electric vehicle (EV) fleet adoption, ensuring minimal environmental footprint.

Strategic Cargo and Connectivity Edge
NMIA’s strategic proximity to major seaports gives it a significant logistical advantage   just 14 km from Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) and 35 km from Mumbai Port Trust   facilitating seamless sea–air cargo connectivity.

The airport is also certified by IATA’s Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators (CEIV) and the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA), confirming adherence to global safety and operational standards.

A New Era in Indian Aviation
With the launch of the Navi Mumbai International Airport, India welcomes a smart, sustainable, and globally benchmarked aviation hub that promises to transform the region’s connectivity, trade logistics, and passenger experience. NMIA stands as a symbol of India’s rising infrastructure prowess a true gateway to the West and a milestone in the nation’s journey toward world-class transportation.