New Delhi
Less than 200 days after it began domestic operations in December 2025, Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) commenced international operations with Air India Express launching direct flights to Abu Dhabi on Wednesday.
The airline will operate the route three times a week. Navi Mumbai Airport has handled over 2.3 million passengers connecting 46 domestic destinations since opening.
Calling it a major milestone, Adani Airport Holdings Ltd. (AAHL) Chief Executive Officer Arun Bansal said, “The launch of our first scheduled international flight marks the beginning of a new phase in Navi Mumbai International Airport’s journey.”
Air India Express said the service forms part of its dual-airport strategy for Mumbai. “We are delighted to launch international operations from Navi Mumbai with direct flights to Abu Dhabi, creating a convenient new gateway to the UAE for travellers from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region,” said Nipun Aggarwal, Chairman of Air India Express.
The inaugural flight also carried NMIA’s first international perishable export shipment, which the airport said would strengthen cargo connectivity for Indian exporters. NMIA is expected to handle 20 million passengers annually in its first phase and up to 90 million upon full completion.
