Mumbai’s aviation network is set for a major reshuffle as a significant portion of international flight operations is expected to move from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport to Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) from October 1, 2026.
Under the proposed traffic-realignment plan, nearly 30% of international flights currently operating from Mumbai Airport are expected to be shifted to NMIA. The move comes as authorities prepare for the redevelopment of Mumbai Airport’s Terminal 1.
One-Third Of Air Traffic To Move To NMIA
Mumbai Airport has reportedly shared the proposed changes with airlines as part of preparations for the redevelopment work. From October 1, around one-third of the airport’s overall air traffic movements could be transferred to Navi Mumbai.
Another major change is expected later in October. From October 25, around one-third of flights currently operating from Terminal 1 are likely to be moved to Terminal 2.
The changes are expected to help create additional operational space at Mumbai Airport while redevelopment work progresses.
Why Is Mumbai Airport Being Restructured?
The traffic changes are linked to the planned redevelopment of Terminal 1. The northern section of Terminal 1B is scheduled to undergo demolition from January 1, 2027, according to reports.
Mumbai Airport currently handles a massive volume of air traffic, with Terminals 1 and 2 together managing close to 950 flight movements every day.
Terminal 1, which is around eight decades old, handles approximately 15 million passengers annually. Terminal 2, meanwhile, has a passenger-handling capacity of around 40 million passengers a year.
What Does The Shift Mean For Passengers?
The transfer of flights is likely to make Navi Mumbai International Airport an increasingly important part of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region’s aviation network.
Passengers travelling around the transition period are advised to carefully check their flight information with their respective airlines. The airport mentioned on the ticket could differ from what passengers are accustomed to, particularly for flights being moved as part of the realignment.
Travellers should also verify their terminal details before leaving for the airport to avoid last-minute confusion.
NMIA Expands International Operations
The development comes shortly after Navi Mumbai International Airport began handling international services.
NMIA started international flight operations on July 15, 2026, with Air India Express flight IX-207 operating the first international service from Navi Mumbai to Abu Dhabi.
With more international services expected to move to NMIA, the airport is poised to play a larger role in handling Mumbai’s growing aviation demand.
