Major Airlines Reluctant To Move To Navi Mumbai Airport Due To Poor Rail, Metro Connectivity; Adani Offers Prime Slots

Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL) has been facing challenges in persuading major airlines like Air India and IndiGo to shift operations to the upcoming Navi Mumbai Airport, which is set for commercial launch in March 2025.

Despite offering prime slots and attempting to move at least one major carrier a year ago, AAHL is yet to secure commitments from these airlines, as per a report by Livemint.

IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers stated, "Even with the new airport, the existing airport (in Mumbai) will still serve its purpose. How precisely we orchestrate one another will have to be planned going forward."

While AAHL is in discussions with several airlines, including Air India and IndiGo, no concrete agreements have been reached yet.

They have indicated that clarity will be provided once agreements are signed.

The Navi Mumbai Airport, with an estimated cost of Rs 19,600 crore, is expected to handle its first flight by the end of FY25, with an initial capacity expansion to accommodate 20 million passengers.

Despite ongoing construction since August 2021, several clearances from government agencies are still pending.

While the airport will have road connectivity to Mumbai, there is currently insufficient rail connectivity via the Central Railway's Harbour Line. Additionally, work on the 40-kilometre metro line linking Mumbai's airport with Navi Mumbai's airport has not commenced.

The Adani Group remains optimistic about receiving prompt approval from relevant authorities.