Commercial Flights Begin at Navi Mumbai International Airport, Marked by Water Cannon Salute

The Voice of Chandigarh | Travel Trade Reporter :

Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) officially entered the country’s civil aviation map with the commencement of scheduled commercial flight operations. The historic first landing was celebrated with a traditional water cannon salute, symbolising the formal opening of the new airport for passenger services.

The inaugural commercial arrival was an IndiGo aircraft from Bengaluru, which touched down in the morning amid tight security and ceremonial arrangements. Shortly after, the airport witnessed its first departure as an IndiGo flight took off for Hyderabad, completing NMIA’s first arrival–departure cycle.

Civil aviation officials and airport authorities termed the launch a major milestone for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The new airport is expected to significantly ease congestion at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport and improve air connectivity for Navi Mumbai, Raigad district and adjoining regions.

On the first day of operations, multiple domestic flights operated by IndiGo and other airlines were scheduled, connecting key cities across the country. Passenger movement remained smooth, with modern terminal facilities, streamlined security checks and upgraded baggage handling systems in place.

Developed as a greenfield international airport, Navi Mumbai International Airport is designed to handle millions of passengers annually in a phased manner. Authorities said that international operations and expanded domestic connectivity will be rolled out gradually in the coming months.

With the launch of commercial flights, NMIA is set to emerge as Mumbai’s second major aviation hub, boosting regional development, employment opportunities and overall air travel capacity in western India.