After decades of planning, the greenfield Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) is set to commence commercial operations from Thursday, a milestone expected to cut travel time, boost tourism and attract large-scale investment across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO), the implementing agency for the project, said the airport will handle 30 air traffic movements, including arrivals and departures, on its first day of operations. The launch is expected to significantly ease congestion at the existing Mumbai international airport while establishing a resilient multi-airport system for the region. Vijay Singhal, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of CIDCO, said the start of operations reflects the Maharashtra government’s and CIDCO’s sustained commitment to infrastructure-led development. He added that the project symbolises a push towards futuristic infrastructure, inclusive growth and stronger global connectivity, marking a proud moment for all stakeholders who supported the vision over the years. The airport features a distinctive lotus-inspired terminal, developed by the Adani Group in partnership with Navi Mumbai International Airport Ltd (NMIAL). According to CIDCO, the design blends sustainability with innovation while reflecting India’s cultural ethos. The start of commercial services is expected to act as a catalyst for regional economic growth, benefiting Navi Mumbai and neighbouring areas including Pune, Thane, Panvel, Raigad and the wider Konkan region. The project’s strategic multimodal connectivity is a key advantage, with access through the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link, national highways, suburban rail services and metro corridors. On the first day of operations, major carriers such as IndiGo, Akasa Air, Air India Express and Star Air will operate flights to and from the airport. IndiGo’s flight 6E 460 from Bengaluru is scheduled to be the first arrival at 8 am, while flight 6E 882 to Hyderabad will mark the first departure at 8.40 am.