The much-anticipated Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) is generating excitement as its September 30 opening nears. Designed with a lotus-inspired layout and expansive terminals, the airport offers residents of Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad a convenient alternative to Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.

Local residents have highlighted the reduced travel time: Rahul Jadhav of Dange Chowk noted it takes around 2.5 hours to reach NMIA compared with four hours to Mumbai airport. Shubham Doiphode of Dehuroad added that long-haul flights to Europe, previously accessible only via Delhi or Bangalore due to Pune’s shorter runway, will now be easier to reach via NMIA using the Pune-Mumbai Expressway.

The first phase of NMIA is reportedly 94 per cent complete, initially accommodating 60 flights per day, with plans to expand to 300 flights daily within six months. Phase 1 is designed to handle 20 million passengers annually, rising to 90 million per year after the completion of dual runways and all four terminals.

Residents also expect reduced delays and cancellations at both Pune and Mumbai airports. Pune’s Lohegaon airport, limited in capacity for larger cargo planes, will see relief with NMIA’s launch. Industrialist Vinay Sawant from Bhosari noted that industries and MNCs in Bhosari, Talegaon, and Chakan MIDC will benefit from easier access for visiting international clients.

Exporters in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad will also gain from the new airport. Mahesh Yelwande of Nighoje said it will lower logistics costs and reduce travel time for perishable consignments, particularly fruits and vegetables.

To ensure seamless connectivity, the state government plans to integrate bus, metro, and rail services with NMIA. The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) will run dedicated buses linking Pune, Dadar, Vashi, and Panvel.