The newest airline in the country will commence with over 100 domestic flights each week from NMIA, with aspirations to increase this to 300 domestic and more than 50 international weekly departures by the winter season. This expansion strategy aligns with the airline’s goal of setting up 10 parking bases by FY2027, focusing primarily on the Middle East and Southeast Asia markets.
Vinay Dube, Founder and CEO of Akasa Air, emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, “Our entry into Navi Mumbai International Airport is a strategic move in line with Akasa Air’s long-term vision to develop a future-ready airline that adapts to the changing needs of Indian travellers. No airline in India will have a larger proportion of its fleet and operations based out of NMIA than Akasa Air.”
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He added, “Improved connectivity from Navi Mumbai will not only enhance our network in the western region but also stimulate India’s economic engine by improving connectivity, boosting regional development, and ensuring that the advantages of aviation-driven growth reach every part of the country.”
“NMIA signifies the future of Indian aviation, and our early involvement supports our vision to meet India’s rising demand with agility, accessibility, and a customer-first approach,” Dube remarked.
AAHL CEO Arun Bansal expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, saying, “We are thrilled to welcome Akasa Air as one of the inaugural airline partners at Navi Mumbai International Airport. Their rapid expansion and forward-thinking strategy make them an ideal ally in NMIA’s journey to becoming a significant domestic and international hub.”
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The new airport, anticipated to handle 20 million passengers and substantial cargo capacity annually in its initial phase, is designed to emerge as a leading global gateway with state-of-the-art infrastructure, amenities, and robust connectivity. Once fully operational, NMIA aims to accommodate up to 90 million passengers and 3.2 MMT of cargo each year.
Akasa Air’s operations at NMIA will significantly aid in relieving congestion at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) and enhance the overall travel experience within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. This development is regarded as a boost for regional growth in Maharashtra and a move towards a more balanced distribution of air traffic between the city’s two airports.
Akasa Air’s early commitment is seen as a strong affirmation of NMIA’s potential to evolve into a key aviation hub. It communicates a clear message to travelers, industry stakeholders, and global airlines that Mumbai’s dual-airport framework is poised to revolutionize air travel in the region, providing a compelling, future-ready alternative.
(Edited by : Jerome Anthony)
