Air India has indicated that airlines may not rush to shift operations to the newly launched Navi Mumbai International Airport, citing concerns over higher tariffs, limited connectivity, and operational challenges.
In a letter dated April 16 to the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (AERA), the airline expressed disagreement with assumptions of strong demand for immediate relocation from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport to NMIA. It highlighted that split operations between two airports could significantly increase costs for carriers.
Both Mumbai airports are operated by the Adani Group, while AERA is currently consulting stakeholders to finalize aeronautical tariffs, including landing and parking charges, for the 2025–2030 period.
The development suggests that despite NMIA’s launch, airlines may adopt a cautious approach before expanding operations, depending on infrastructure readiness and cost viability.
