- Navi Mumbai International Airport launches its first international flight to Abu Dhabi via Air India Express on July 15, 2026.
- The thrice-weekly service opens NMIA's international network in less than 200 days after the airport commenced domestic operations on December 25, 2025.
- Arun Bansal, CEO of AAHL, stated that the launch of the first scheduled international flight marks the beginning of a new phase in NMIA's journey.
- Nipun Aggarwal, Chairman of Air India Express, expressed delight in launching international operations from Navi Mumbai, creating a convenient new gateway to the UAE.
Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) officially launched its first international flight to Abu Dhabi on July 15, 2026, through Air India Express, marking a pivotal moment for the airport.1
Arun Bansal, CEO of Adani Airport Holdings Ltd. (AAHL), stated, "The launch of our first scheduled international flight marks the beginning of a new phase in Navi Mumbai International Airport's journey."3
The thrice-weekly service, which commenced less than 200 days after NMIA began domestic operations on December 25, 2025, is expected to enhance connectivity for travelers from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).2
Nipun Aggarwal, Chairman of Air India Express, expressed delight in launching international operations, emphasizing the new gateway to the UAE for MMR travelers.4
Since its domestic launch, NMIA has connected 46 destinations, served over 2.3 million passengers, and currently manages around 150 Air Traffic Movements (ATMs) daily.
The inaugural flight also carried NMIA's first global perishable export shipment, establishing the airport as a new hub for high-value cargo.
AAHL plans to expand its international routes, enhancing NMIA's role in supporting India's growing international connectivity, trade, and tourism.
Developed under a public-private partnership, NMIA aims to handle 20 million passengers annually in its initial phase, with a future capacity of 90 million passengers and 0.5 million metric tonnes of cargo.
“Since commencing domestic operations in December 2025, NMIA has connected 46 domestic destinations and served over 2.3 million passengers. The inaugural international flight also carried the airport's first global perishable export shipment, marking its entry into high-value cargo.”
Deccan Herald
