The nation’s newest airline will start with over 100 domestic flights weekly from NMIA, with aspirations to increase to 300 domestic and more than 50 international departures by winter. This expansion strategy aligns with Akasa Air’s goal of establishing 10 parking bases by the end of FY2027, particularly targeting the Middle East and Southeast Asia regions.
Vinay Dube, Founder and CEO of Akasa Air, emphasized the significance of this initiative: “Our entry into Navi Mumbai International Airport is a calculated move that dovetails with Akasa Air’s long-term aim to create a future-ready airline that caters to the changing needs of Indian travelers. No other airline in India will have a greater proportion of its fleet and operations based at NMIA than Akasa Air.”
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Dube continued, “Improved connectivity from Navi Mumbai will not only bolster our network in the western region but will also help drive India’s economic growth by enhancing connectivity, encouraging regional development, and ensuring the advantages of aviation-driven growth reach every part of the country.”
“NMIA embodies the future of Indian aviation, and our presence from the start aligns with our goal to meet India’s rising demand through agility, accessibility, and a customer-first approach,” Dube said.
Arun Bansal, CEO of AAHL, welcomed the partnership, stating, “We are delighted to have Akasa Air as one of the inaugural airline partners at Navi Mumbai International Airport. Their swift growth and forward-thinking strategy make them a prime partner in NMIA’s journey towards becoming a vital domestic and international hub.”
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The new airport is projected to accommodate 20 million passengers and substantial cargo volume annually in its initial phase, with plans to evolve into a premier global gateway featuring modern infrastructure, amenities, and robust connectivity. Once fully operational, NMIA is expected to serve up to 90 million passengers and handle 3.2 MMT of cargo per year.
Akasa Air’s operations from NMIA will significantly contribute to alleviating congestion at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) and improving the overall travel experience within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. This development is viewed as a boon for Maharashtra’s regional growth and a step towards more balanced air traffic distribution across the city’s two airports.
The early commitment of Akasa Air is seen as a strong affirmation of NMIA’s potential to emerge as a key aviation hub. It conveys a clear signal to travelers, industry stakeholders, and global carriers that Mumbai’s dual-airport model is poised to revolutionize air travel in the region and provide a compelling, future-ready alternative.
(Edited by : Jerome Anthony)
