By Animesh Bhardwaj

Copyright republicworld

Mumbai: The Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) is scheduled to open next month, and it’s set to change air travel across India. This brand-new airport is being built to significantly reduce the heavy congestion currently experienced at Mumbai’s existing airport and to easily handle the growing number of passengers. Its contemporary infrastructure is designed to manage both domestic and international flights efficiently. The focus of the airport’s design is on passenger comfort and ensuring excellent operations. It is expected to cater to millions of travellers every year and become a major hub for airlines. As a result of this major project, the surrounding areas are already experiencing rapid development. The government and private companies have worked closely together to ensure the airport is completed on time, marking a significant achievement in India’s overall airport expansion strategy. Twin-Airport System Once open, NMIA will operate as a “twin-airport system” with the existing Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), much like successful global aviation centres in places like Dubai and New York. This impressive new facility, spread across 2,865 acres, is expected to transform the passenger experience. Capacity and Phased Development The 2,865-acre airport is being built in phases to handle increasing air travel demand. The initial phase will feature Terminal 1, which can manage 20 million passengers annually. Plans aim to expand the facility to four terminals by 2032, boosting the total annual capacity to 90 million passengers. World-Class Terminal Design Terminal 1 will feature a distinctive lotus-inspired architectural design. It will include large glass windows, modern check-in counters, automated kiosks, and biometric systems for a smooth passenger experience. The baggage claim areas are specifically engineered for high efficiency. Passenger Amenities Travellers can enjoy spacious lounges offering runway views. Dining courts will offer a blend of local Mumbai and global cuisines. The airport will also feature luxury shopping, free Wi-Fi, dedicated family lounges, private business pods, and digital wayfinding tools. Cargo and General Aviation Focus NMIA is set to become a major cargo hub, initially handling 800,000 tonnes annually, which is vital for Mumbai’s pharmaceutical, perishable goods, and e-commerce industries. It will also house India’s largest general aviation terminal, featuring about 75 aircraft stands and a heliport. Supporting Infrastructure Supporting facilities will include a fuel farm and advanced maintenance centres. A cutting-edge air traffic control tower is part of the initial plan but will be replaced by a permanent facility after seven years.