First Flight Lands at the Navi Mumbai International Airport
Navi Mumbai International Airport officially began flight operations on 25th December 2025 with smooth arrivals, departures, and strong passenger response
The Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) reached a historic milestone on 25th December 2025 as it officially began commercial flight operations. From early morning, airport staff, airline crews, officials and security teams worked closely to ensure a smooth first day. Passengers were excited, knowing they were part of an important moment in aviation history.
One night earlier, on 24th December, NMIA hosted a grand drone show to mark the opening. A total of 1,515 drones lit up the night sky with stunning formations such as a 3D lotus, the NMIA logo, a flying aircraft, eco-friendly airport visuals, Mumbai skyline scenes, and images showing India’s growth.
On the opening morning, around 8 a.m., IndiGo flight 6E460 from Bengaluru became the first aircraft to land. It received a traditional water cannon salute. Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani welcomed passengers and interacted with airport workers. Among the passengers were the daughter-in-law and grandson of late leader Dinkar Balu Patil, who brought a photo frame and messages requesting the airport be named after him.
Check-in and security began early, offering both Digi Yatra and traditional processing. The design and calm environment impressed many passengers. Before the first departure, staff performed coconut-breaking and cake-cutting rituals. At 8:40 a.m., IndiGo flight 6E882 departed for Hyderabad, completing NMIA’s first arrival-and-departure cycle.
Throughout the day, IndiGo, Air India Express, Akasa Air and Star Air operated flights. By the end of the day, NMIA had handled 48 flights and served around 4,000 passengers. Basic services were available, though some facilities were still under development. Flights are currently operating from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., with plans to expand gradually and move toward 24-hour operations by early 2026.
