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By:

Bhalchandra Chorghade

11 August 2025 at 1:54:18 pm

NMIA set for commercial take-off on December 25

Long-term expansion plans take shape Mumbai: Even as long-term expansion plans gather momentum, Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) is preparing to mark a defining milestone with the commencement of commercial operations from December 25, 2025. Sources familiar with the development confirmed that the first flight is scheduled to land at NMIA at around 8.30 am from Bengaluru, operated by IndiGo. The same aircraft will subsequently depart for Delhi, symbolically placing the greenfield...

NMIA set for commercial take-off on December 25

Long-term expansion plans take shape Mumbai: Even as long-term expansion plans gather momentum, Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) is preparing to mark a defining milestone with the commencement of commercial operations from December 25, 2025. Sources familiar with the development confirmed that the first flight is scheduled to land at NMIA at around 8.30 am from Bengaluru, operated by IndiGo. The same aircraft will subsequently depart for Delhi, symbolically placing the greenfield airport on India’s aviation map and formally integrating it into the country’s busiest air corridors. This operational launch comes at a time when the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO), the project’s nodal planning authority, has initiated the process to appoint a consultant for conducting a geotechnical feasibility study for a proposed third runway at NMIA. The parallel movement of near-term operational readiness and long-term capacity planning underlines the strategic importance of the airport, not just as a secondary facility to Mumbai, but as a future aviation hub in its own right. The December 25 launch date carries significance beyond symbolism. NMIA has been envisioned for over two decades as a critical solution to the capacity constraints at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), which operates close to saturation. With limited scope for further expansion at Mumbai’s existing airport, NMIA’s entry into operations is expected to ease congestion, rationalise flight schedules and improve overall passenger experience across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). Modest Operations Initial operations are expected to be modest, focusing on select domestic routes, with Bengaluru and Delhi being logical starting points given their high passenger volumes and strong business connectivity with Mumbai and Navi Mumbai. Aviation experts note that starting with trunk routes allows operators and airport systems to stabilise operations, fine-tune processes and gradually scale up capacity. IndiGo’s choice as the first operator also reflects the airline’s dominant market share and its strategy of early-mover advantage at new airports. While NMIA’s first phase includes two runways, the initiation of a geotechnical feasibility study for a third runway highlights planners’ expectations of robust long-term demand. CIDCO’s move to appoint a consultant at this early stage suggests that authorities are keen to future-proof the airport, learning from the capacity limitations faced by CSMIA. A third runway, if found technically and environmentally feasible, would significantly enhance NMIA’s ability to handle peak-hour traffic, support parallel operations and attract international long-haul flights over time. The feasibility study will play a critical role in determining soil conditions, land stability, construction challenges and environmental sensitivities, particularly given Navi Mumbai’s complex terrain and proximity to mangroves and water bodies. Experts point out that such studies are essential to avoid cost overruns and execution delays, which have historically plagued large infrastructure projects in the region. From an economic perspective, the operationalisation of NMIA is expected to act as a catalyst for growth across Navi Mumbai and adjoining regions. Improved air connectivity is likely to boost commercial real estate, logistics parks, hospitality and tourism, while also strengthening the case for ancillary infrastructure such as metro lines, road corridors and airport-linked business districts. The timing of the airport’s opening also aligns with broader infrastructure upgrades underway in the MMR, including new highways and rail connectivity, which could amplify NMIA’s impact. However, challenges remain. Smooth coordination between airlines, ground handling agencies, security forces and air traffic control will be critical during the initial phase. Any operational hiccups could affect public perception of the new airport, making the first few weeks crucial. Additionally, the transition of flights from CSMIA to NMIA will need careful calibration to ensure passenger convenience and airline viability. As NMIA prepares to welcome its first aircraft on December 25, the simultaneous push towards planning a third runway signals a clear message: the airport is not just opening for today’s needs, but is being positioned to serve the region’s aviation demands for decades to come.

Egypt Unveiled: Where Ancient Majesty Meets Modern Charm!

History, culture, flavour and adventure—every journey through Egypt is a tapestry of wonders.

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Egypt has always stirred curiosity in every traveller’s heart. Its ancient civilisation, iconic monuments and rich cultural heritage have drawn explorers for centuries. Standing before the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx—marvels among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—you instantly feel the weight of history. Built as monumental resting places for pharaohs, these pyramids, along with the remarkable sites of Abu Simbel, Thebes and the Valley of the Kings, reflect the grandeur of a civilisation far ahead of its time. The story of King Tutankhamun, whose tomb was found in 1922, continues to fascinate the world, fuelled by the legend of the “Curse of the Pharaohs”.


Egyptian mythology adds a magical layer to this land. We’ve all read about its powerful gods and goddesses—Ra, the sun god; Osiris, ruler of the afterlife; Isis, the divine mother; Horus, protector of the skies; Anubis, guardian of mummification; and Hathor, goddess of love and dance. Along with Thoth, Bastet and Amon, these deities shaped the beliefs and rituals that still echo through Egypt’s temples.


Flowing through this ancient land is Egypt’s lifeline—the Nile River. For thousands of years, it has nurtured agriculture, shaped settlements and powered daily life. Along the eastern edge lies the Red Sea, with its colourful coral reefs, vibrant fish and underwater beauty that attracts divers from around the world. Cairo, bustling and energetic, blends ancient monuments with modern culture, while the new administrative capital marks Egypt’s bold step into the future.


The culinary flavours of Egypt add another layer to its charm. From crispy falafel and the beloved koshary—a hearty mix of rice, pasta and lentils—to mulukhiyah, kebabs and kofta, Egyptian cuisine is comforting and soulful. Sweet lovers will enjoy baklava and umm ali, desserts that offer warm hospitality in every bite.


This journey holds a special place in my heart—one of the most memorable experiences of my 25-year tourism career. And today, I’m delighted to take you along.


Our adventure began at Cairo International Airport, where a smiling representative greeted us and escorted us to our hotel. The next morning, our Cairo City Tour began with an English-speaking Egyptologist who guided us through the Pyramids of Giza. Standing before the Great Pyramids of Cheops, Chephren and Mykerinos felt surreal, and the mighty Sphinx, with its silent gaze, added to the wonder. At the Egyptian Museum, we admired statues, royal jewellery and timeless treasures from King Tutankhamun’s tomb—each piece showcasing the brilliance of ancient craftsmanship.


In the evening, the Nile welcomed us with its gentle breeze. Our dinner cruise offered delicious food, lively belly dancing, captivating folklore performances and a magical Sound and Light Show by the pyramids—an unforgettable moment when history came alive.


The next morning, we flew to Aswan, where the famous High Dam stood tall as a modern engineering marvel that tamed the Nile’s floods. We then visited the Unfinished Obelisk, revealing the skill of ancient stonemasons. After checking into our hotel, we spent the evening at the enchanting Philae Temple, dedicated to Goddess Isis and beautifully lit during the Sound and Light Show.


At dawn, carrying breakfast boxes, we set out for Abu Simbel. Standing before the colossal rock-cut temples of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari was awe-inspiring. Their perfect alignment with the sun twice a year showcases ancient brilliance. Returning to Aswan, we boarded our luxurious Nile cruise, a highlight for its warm hospitality, delicious meals and cultural performances.


The next day, we sailed and stopped at the Kom Ombo Temple, which is uniquely dedicated to Sobek and Horus. We then continued to Edfu to explore the Temple of Horus—the best-preserved temple in Egypt, rich with carvings and mythology. After lunch on board, we sailed to Luxor and visited the beautifully lit Luxor Temple before retiring for the night.


The next morning, we explored Luxor’s West Bank. The Valley of the Kings left us spellbound with its intricately painted royal tombs. The Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, with its grand terraces, honoured Egypt’s most powerful female pharaoh. We also admired the towering Colossi of Memnon, silent guardians of ancient Thebes.


Later, we travelled to Hurghada in a comfortable luxury bus. Here, the Red Sea offered a completely different kind of beauty. Guests enjoyed swimming, diving and snorkelling in its crystal-clear waters. A glass-bottom boat and submarine ride revealed vibrant coral reefs and colourful marine life—an underwater masterpiece.


With hearts full and memories overflowing, we headed to Hurghada Airport for our flight to Mumbai, carrying with us the warmth, wonder and magic of Egypt—a land where history breathes and beauty endures.


Let’s explore more together, so stay tuned!

 

(The writer is a tourism professional and runs a company, Global Voyages. She could be contacted at goglobalvoyages@gmail.com. Views personal.)

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