Inauguration set for March 2025

The Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) achieved a major milestone on October 11, 2024, with the successful trial landing of an Air Force C-295 aircraft on its newly constructed runway. The event was attended by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, and Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol, among other dignitaries.

The C-295 aircraft received a ceremonial 'Water Cannon' salute upon landing, marking the runway's readiness for future operations. Following the successful landing, a Sukhoi-30 fighter jet performed a take-off, adding to the significance of the event.

Chief Minister Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Fadnavis honoured the pilot of the C-295 aircraft with a special commendation. The occasion also saw a celebratory flypast by the Sukhoi-30, which further demonstrated the airport's operational capabilities. In a symbolic moment, Chief Minister Shinde participated in a photo session from the cockpit of the aircraft, raising his hand in a triumphant gesture.

Key attendees included CIDCO Chairman Sanjay Shirsat, and prominent local political figures such as MP Srirang Barne, MP Sunil Tatkare, MP Dr.Shrikant Shinde, MP Naresh Mhaske and Navi Mumbai Police Commissioner Milind Bharambe. The C-295 flew in from Gandhinagar, while the Sukhoi arrived from Pune.

Speaking to the media, Chief Minister Shinde described the day as a historic milestone for the airport project, saying, "Today will be written in golden letters in history. An important milestone has been completed for the airport." He expressed optimism about NMIA's opening for regular passenger services by March 2025, with efforts underway to expedite the project's final phases. Shinde acknowledged the dedication of the CIDCO team, asserting that "this airport will become a great haven for the common man and will further accelerate the progress of Maharashtra." He also highlighted that the airport would create thousands of jobs and stimulate the development of IT parks and business centers.

Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis shared Shinde's enthusiasm, estimating that NMIA could handle up to 90 million passengers annually once fully operational. He emphasized the airport's strategic importance, citing enhanced connectivity through the Shivadi-Nhava Sheva Sea Link, Mumbai Metro, and two bay routes, calling the airport a "special project" for India.