Airlines to Relocate Up to 5 Million International Passengers Annually to Navi Mumbai, Sources Say

New Delhi, October 6 — Sources close to the Ministry of Civil Aviation confirmed that domestic carriers are being asked to submit a robust transition blueprint that will move a substantial share of international traffic to Navi Mumbai International Airport.

The push aligns with the ongoing phased upgrade of Terminal‑1 at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. Officials have hinted that the shift could be advanced by a few weeks to smooth out logistics for airlines, travelers and allied service providers.

In a senior‑level meeting, the civil aviation secretary pressed airlines and airport operators for a clear, actionable plan covering gate assignments, ground handling, passenger flow, and ancillary services. A review panel will reconvene on October 13 to evaluate the submitted strategies.

The proposed relocation targets the movement of roughly five million international passengers each year from the Mumbai hub to NMIA. Further deliberations are expected around October 20 to lock in the final transition schedule.

Major players, including IndiGo, Air India and Akasa Air, have reportedly been in talks with the airport operator for the past 18 months regarding the operational shift. The gathering also featured representatives from Adeni Airport Holdings Ltd, the Airports Authority of India, the Federation of Indian Airlines and other airline groups.

AAHL presented a detailed readiness report, outlining the airport’s capacity to accommodate the projected passenger volume, enhanced road connectivity, in‑flight catering capabilities, hotel partnerships, lounge facilities and other passenger‑focused services.

During the 90‑minute session, airline concerns were addressed, and all stakeholders pledged to ensure that the transfer does not adversely affect passenger convenience or airline efficiency.