The operationalisation of Navi Mumbai International Airport marks a pivotal shift in Mumbai’s long-term aviation capacity planning, and early mover advantage is already taking shape. With Air India Express commencing commercial operations on the airport’s opening day, the development signals how airlines are positioning NMIA as a strategic growth lever rather than a future placeholder.
Air India Express has inaugurated commercial operations from Navi Mumbai International Airport, becoming among the first airlines to operate from the greenfield airport on the day it opened for services. The airline commenced flights on 25 December 2025 with direct connectivity to Bengaluru and Delhi, strengthening Mumbai’s dual-airport ecosystem and adding immediate capacity to key metro routes.
Commenting on the launch, Aloke Singh, Managing Director, Air India Express, said, “The start of flights from Navi Mumbai is a milestone for the city and the region. We are happy to be part of this effort in enhancing capacity for Mumbai and the wider Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Navi Mumbai is a key pillar of our dual-airport strategy, complementing our services from CSMIA, where we operate direct flights to 11 domestic and three international destinations. Being here from day one reflects our confidence in the potential NMIA has – and of the role this airport will play in getting Mumbai back on a rapid growth trajectory. AIX will scale up its operations going forward, offering guests reliable, value-driven connectivity delivered with the warmth of Indian hospitality, supported by a modern fleet.”
Initial routes and frequency expansion
Air India Express’ inaugural flight from NMIA operated to Bengaluru, with the occasion marked by a ceremonial send-off at the airport, including the presentation of a commemorative boarding pass to the first guest. The airline’s inaugural Delhi service departed later the same day.
Effective 25 December 2025, the airline is operating daily services between Navi Mumbai and Bengaluru, along with five weekly flights to Delhi. From 1 January 2026, frequencies will increase with the addition of a second daily Bengaluru service and daily operations to Delhi, significantly strengthening metro connectivity from NMIA.
Flight schedule (all timings local)
Effective from 25 December 2025
| Departure | Arrival | Departure time | Arrival time | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Navi Mumbai | Bengaluru | 08:55 | 11:05 | Daily |
| Bengaluru | Navi Mumbai | 06:00 | 08:10 | Daily |
| Navi Mumbai | Delhi | 14:05 | 16:20 | Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun |
| Delhi | Navi Mumbai | 11:15 | 13:25 | Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun |
Additional flights from 1 January 2026
| Departure | Arrival | Departure time | Arrival time | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Navi Mumbai | Bengaluru | 19:35 | 21:35 | Daily |
| Bengaluru | Navi Mumbai | 16:55 | 18:55 | Daily |
| Navi Mumbai | Delhi | 09:00 | 11:10 | Daily |
| Delhi | Navi Mumbai | 06:00 | 08:20 | Daily |
Strengthening Maharashtra footprint
The launch further consolidates Air India Express’ growing presence in Maharashtra. The airline currently operates over 130 weekly flights from Mumbai and around 105 weekly flights from Pune. It has also recently commenced services from Nagpur, with 14 weekly flights operating twice daily to Bengaluru, its largest domestic hub.
Enhanced onboard experience and brand differentiation
Alongside network expansion, the airline continues to roll out its upgraded cabin experience on Boeing 737-8 aircraft. The refreshed cabins feature enhanced seat padding, wider armrests and legroom ranging from 29 to 38 inches, in-seat USB charging ports, onboard ovens for hot ‘Gourmair’ meals, new carpets and Boeing Sky Interior mood lighting.
Air India Express is also showcasing its ‘Tales of India’ initiative across its new aircraft, highlighting over 50 indigenous art forms from 25 states through distinctive tail art. The collection includes Maharashtra’s Warli paintings and traditional Himroo and Paithani weaves, reinforcing the airline’s cultural positioning alongside its value-driven proposition.
Rahul Bhadana is a digital editor at TravTalk with experience spanning multiple content niches, with a strong focus on travel trade journalism and digital publishing. A graduate of Delhi University, his work covers editorial writing, content strategy and platform-led storytelling, supporting TravTalk’s digital growth and industry engagement. A technology enthusiast, he enjoys films, poetry and exploring new ideas across media and culture.
