Air India Express to launch first International flight from Navi Mumbai Airport with Abu Dhabi service

Air India Express is expected to become the first airline to operate international passenger services from Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), with flights to Abu Dhabi scheduled to begin on July 15.

According to sources, bookings for the inaugural international service are likely to open shortly. The launch will mark a major milestone for the greenfield airport, which began domestic commercial operations on December 25, 2025.

NMIA Chief Executive Officer BVJK Sharma had earlier announced plans to commence international passenger and cargo operations from July 15. The airport, developed by the Adani Group in partnership with CIDCO, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in October 2025 and has been gradually expanding its operations.

The airport operator had initially planned to start international services during the summer schedule but postponed the move due to the conflict in West Asia. With preparations now nearing completion, the airport is set to handle both passenger and freighter services on international routes.

Currently, Navi Mumbai International Airport handles around 20,000 passengers daily and about 150 flight movements. Airport authorities expect traffic to rise significantly by the end of the year, with daily passenger numbers projected to reach 50,000 and air traffic movements increasing to around 380 per day.

Industry sources indicate that other domestic and international carriers are also expected to launch overseas services from the airport in the coming months, further strengthening Mumbai’s aviation infrastructure and connectivity.