Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) has commenced scheduled international operations with Air India Express launching direct flights to Abu Dhabi from July 15, 2026. The milestone strengthens India’s aviation infrastructure, expands international passenger and cargo connectivity, and reinforces NMIA’s role as Mumbai’s second global aviation gateway.
Key Highlights
- Air India Express starts thrice-weekly direct flights between Navi Mumbai and Abu Dhabi.
- NMIA launches international services within 200 days of domestic operations.
- Airport has already served 2.3 million passengers across 46 domestic destinations.
- First international flight also carries NMIA’s inaugural perishable export cargo shipment.
Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) has officially entered the international aviation network with the launch of its first scheduled overseas service, as Air India Express commenced direct flights to Abu Dhabi on July 15, 2026. The new route enhances connectivity between the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) and the United Arab Emirates, offering passengers and businesses a convenient new international gateway.
The launch marks a major milestone for Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL), coming less than 200 days after NMIA began domestic operations on December 25, 2025. The rapid expansion reflects the airport’s growing importance in India’s aviation ecosystem and ensures that every airport managed by AAHL now offers international connectivity.
According to Air India Express Chairman Nipun Aggarwal, the Abu Dhabi service supports the airline’s dual-airport strategy by complementing operations from Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. The new service is expected to improve travel options for passengers while strengthening business and tourism links between India and the UAE.
AAHL CEO Arun Bansal described the launch as a significant step in NMIA’s growth journey and acknowledged the support of government agencies, aviation regulators and airline partners. He reaffirmed the airport’s commitment to delivering world-class passenger experiences, seamless operations and expanding its international destination network.
Within just seven months of operations, NMIA has connected 46 domestic destinations, handled more than 2.3 million passengers, and now manages approximately 150 Air Traffic Movements (ATMs) every day. The airport is steadily emerging as a key aviation hub serving western India and easing congestion at Mumbai’s primary airport.
The inaugural international service also transported NMIA’s first global perishable export cargo shipment, marking another milestone in the airport’s logistics capabilities. As more international routes are introduced, NMIA is expected to strengthen India’s global trade, tourism and aviation infrastructure while supporting long-term economic growth.
The launch of international operations at Navi Mumbai International Airport represents a major advancement for India’s aviation sector, improving global connectivity, facilitating trade and positioning NMIA as a strategic international gateway for passengers and cargo.
FAQs
1. Which airline launched the first international flight from Navi Mumbai International Airport?
Air India Express launched the airport’s first scheduled international service.
2. What is the first international destination from NMIA?
The airport’s first international destination is Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
3. How many passengers has NMIA served so far?
The airport has handled more than 2.3 million passengers since domestic operations began.
4. Why is the first international flight significant?
Besides passenger services, it also carried NMIA’s first international perishable export cargo shipment, enhancing India’s trade connectivity.
