After Indigo, Akasa partners with Navi Mumbai Airport for commercial flights

Akasa Air has announced a partnership with AdAirport Holdings Ltd (AAHL) to commence commercial flight operations from the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA). The airline plans to offer over 100 weekly domestic departures at first, increasing to over 300 domestic and 50 international flights in the winter schedule.

As part of its expansion strategy, Akasa Air aims to establish 10 parking bases by 2027, with a focus on routes to the Middle East and Southeast Asia.

Recently, Indigo also entered into a partnership with the Adani Group for flights from the newly constructed Navi Mumbai airport.

Vinay Dube, Founder and CEO of Akasa Air, stated: “Our entry into Navi Mumbai International Airport is a significant step in aligning with our long-term vision to create a responsive airline that meets the evolving demands of Indian travelers. No other airline will have a larger share of operations based at NMIA than Akasa Air.”

Dube also emphasized the enhancements in connectivity from Navi Mumbai, stating, “This development will not only bolster our network in the western region but also significantly contribute to India’s economy by enhancing connectivity, stimulating regional development, and ensuring that the benefits of aviation-led growth are realized nationwide.”

He further added, “NMIA symbolizes the future of Indian aviation, and our presence aligns with our goal to address rising demands with agility and customer-focused innovation.”

Arun Bansal, CEO of AAHL, remarked, “Welcoming Akasa Air as one of our inaugural partners is exciting. Their rapid ascent and forward-thinking strategy make them an ideal ally in NMIA’s evolution into a domestic and international hub, enhancing travel experiences for millions.”

Navi Mumbai International Airport is designed to manage 20 million passengers and 0.5 million metric tonnes (MMT) of cargo per year in its first phase, with plans for capacity expansion to eventually accommodate 90 million passengers and 3.2 MMT of cargo.

The establishment of the Navi Mumbai airport will facilitate a dual-airport system for the financial capital of India, alleviating congestion at the existing Mumbai airport and substantially improving passenger experiences.

This new airport covers over 1,160 hectares (2,866 acres).

In March 2025, Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani visited the almost operational site, expressing plans to inaugurate the airport in the first half of 2025.

The greenfield airport will feature two parallel runways, allowing concurrent landings and takeoffs, with the main runway extending 3,700 meters to accommodate large aircraft.

Adani Airport Holdings Ltd was created in 2019 as a subsidiary of Adani Enterprises Ltd, which oversees operations for multiple airports across India.