Navi Mumbai International Airport Getting Ready for September 30 Inauguration
Mumbai: The long-awaited Navi Mumbai airport is finally on track for its inauguration on September 30. While earlier deadlines were often missed, including three in the past year, recent developments suggest that this time, the launch is set in stone.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) issued a fresh notice on Thursday confirming that the runway will remain closed only until September 20. Aviation insiders believe this signals that operations could begin by the end of the month. Domestic flights, likely starting with a few routes, are expected to take off around late October or early November.
Since May, AAI has been repeatedly extending the closure period of the airport’s runway through official NOTAMs (Notice to Airmen), which keep pilots informed about operational updates. Initially, AAI’s publication in March had mentioned that the runway would be ready by mid-May. But by May, the closure was extended to August 7 and later to September 3. The latest notice, valid until September 20, suggests that further delays are unlikely.
A senior aviation source explained, “Had the September 30 inauguration been postponed, the latest NOTAM would have extended the closure into October. That’s not the case now.”
The airport is not just gearing up for flights. On August 28, a fast EV charging station was inaugurated to support airport vehicles such as Follow Me cars, security, ground operations, and apron maintenance vehicles. The dual-charger setup with a 60 kWh output can serve up to 20 vehicles, promoting cleaner energy use and greater efficiency on the airside.
Operational readiness is being thoroughly tested as well. On August 21, a full-scale ORAT (Operational Readiness and Airport Transfer) simulation was successfully completed, covering everything from deboarding and equipment positioning to fuelling and pushback operations. Officials say the goal is to ensure that the first departures from Navi Mumbai airport are seamless and trouble-free.
A successful simulation of the #ORAT parking trial at #NaviMumbaiAirport
— Navi Mumbai International Airport (@navimumairport) August 21, 2025
From re-measurements to deboarding, and from equipment positioning to fuelling, clearance testing and pushbacks, every process was replicated so your first departure from #NMIA will be as smooth as it is… pic.twitter.com/pkrNr3xsiw
Preparations are also underway to host Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the inauguration ceremony. Adani Airport Holdings Ltd (AAHL), which is managing the airport’s development, had earlier announced April 17 as the launch date, but delays pushed it back.
With all pieces falling into place, the September 30 inauguration now looks set to open a new chapter in India’s aviation landscape.
