NEW DELHI- The Civil Aviation Ministry has asked Adani Airport Holdings Ltd (AAHL) to delay the proposed partial shift of international flights from Mumbai to Navi Mumbai.
The move affects operations at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) and Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMI), as airlines have opposed AAHL’s proposed reduction and transfer of international services.
Government Seeks More Time for Mumbai-Navi Mumbai Flight Transition
The Civil Aviation Ministry has asked AAHL to postpone the planned transition by a few weeks and develop a firm implementation plan with airlines. The decision follows concerns raised by carriers over the proposed transfer of international operations to Navi Mumbai.
AAHL, which operates both Mumbai Airport and Navi Mumbai International Airport, had asked airlines to shift 33% of their international flights to Navi Mumbai or discontinue those services by October 25.
The proposed transition is linked to the redevelopment of Mumbai Airport’s Terminal 1. AAHL plans to renovate the terminal, requiring a partial redistribution of flight operations to Navi Mumbai.
Airlines have opposed the proposed transition timeline, prompting the government to bring the stakeholders together to resolve operational concerns before the shift proceeds.
Civil Aviation Ministry Brings Stakeholders Together
Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha chaired a meeting in New Delhi with representatives from airlines, AAHL, the Federation of Indian Airlines (FIA), the International Air Transport Association (IATA), and the Airports Authority of India (AAI).
The meeting focused on the proposed transition and the operational requirements associated with shifting international services to Navi Mumbai.
Sinha proposed delaying the transition by several weeks and asked both airlines and AAHL to submit a firm plan for moving operations.
The government’s approach is aimed at creating a coordinated transition rather than implementing the proposed October 25 deadline without agreement among the affected stakeholders.
Airlines and Adani Airports to Hold Further Talks
AAHL and airlines are scheduled to hold another meeting on October 13 to discuss the transition plan. A further meeting is planned for October 20 to determine the final structure and timeline for the shift.
The additional discussions are expected to address airline operational concerns and establish how international services can be redistributed while maintaining passenger convenience and airport efficiency.
The meetings will also provide stakeholders with an opportunity to assess the infrastructure and support systems available at Navi Mumbai International Airport before additional international operations are transferred.
Navi Mumbai Airport Prepares for International Growth
During the meeting, AAHL told stakeholders that Navi Mumbai International Airport is prepared to handle up to 5 million international passengers annually.
The airport operator highlighted its supporting infrastructure and passenger facilities, including airport connectivity, in-flight catering, hotels, lounges and other services required to support international operations.
AAHL also responded to questions from airline representatives regarding the proposed transition and the redevelopment of Mumbai Airport.
The meeting lasted nearly 90 minutes, with discussions focused on operational preparedness, passenger requirements and the implementation of the proposed flight transition.
Coordinated Transition Remains the Priority
The stakeholders described the discussions as constructive and reaffirmed their commitment to achieving a smooth transition.
The government’s request for additional time gives airlines and AAHL an opportunity to resolve operational issues before a larger number of international flights move to Navi Mumbai.
The final transition plan is expected to emerge from the October 13 and October 20 discussions, with the government seeking a coordinated approach that protects passenger convenience while supporting the redevelopment of Mumbai Airport.
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