Adani Predicts Some Foreign Airlines May Drop Mumbai Flights Over Navi Mumbai Airport Shift

Adani Airport Holdings expects one or two foreign airlines to suspend Mumbai services rather than relocate to the new Navi Mumbai International Airport, according to a senior executive. The conglomerate argues such exits would have a minimal impact on overall passenger numbers, but industry analysts warn that losing well-known long-haul carriers could undermine the airport's global connectivity. Navi Mumbai, set to open in 2025, is designed to ease congestion at Mumbai's existing airport, yet its success hinges on attracting international network carriers. If foreign airlines opt out, the new hub may rely heavily on Indian carriers like Air India and IndiGo, limiting direct links to key global destinations and reducing its appeal to business and leisure travelers. The potential departures highlight the challenge of building a world-class aviation gateway amid competitive pressures and airline reluctance to split operations between two airports. For Mumbai to remain a top international destination, the new airport must secure commitments from global airlines early on.