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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.

Riding for a Cause

Updated: Jan 20

Riding for a Cause

Being a passionate biker myself, I’ve always believed that the open road holds a unique power, not just to free the soul, but to connect, protect and empower those in need. Over the years, I’ve come across extraordinary stories of motorcycle groups transforming lives, from safeguarding children to redefining freedom for women and uplifting entire communities.


Case in point is the Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA) in the U.S. This is no ordinary motorcycle club. It is an extraordinary organization with a singular mission: to shield and empower children who have suffered abuse. Established in 1995 in Provo, Utah by John Paul ‘Chief’ Lilly, BACA began with a modest ride of 27 bikers supporting an 8-year-old boy too terrified to leave his home. Since then, the organization has expanded significantly with chapters forming nationwide.


BACA’s members come from diverse backgrounds and undergo thorough training, fingerprinting and comprehensive FBI background checks to ensure they are well-prepared to assist abused children. These bikers collaborate with local and state authorities to provide a sense of security and protection to the children they support. They stand guard outside homes, accompany children to court, and offer a ‘biker family attitude’ that helps these children feel safe and not alone.


One child, known as Froggy, along with her two brothers, experienced severe physical and emotional abuse. During their most challenging times, they found comfort and protection within the BACA community. The bikers’ presence and support have significantly improved their lives, making them feel secure and empowered.


In a similar vein, Indian motorcycle riders are also contributing to social causes and promoting education in rural areas.


Founded in January 2011 by Urvashi Patole, The Bikerni has become a symbol of empowerment for women in India, challenging gender stereotypes and carving a space for women in the male-dominated world of motorcycling. What started as a small group of passionate riders has grown into a nationwide movement, with chapters in nearly every major city.


The Bikerni’s mission is clear: to provide an equal platform for women motorcyclists while fostering confidence, independence, and solidarity. Beyond riding, the group emphasizes community and empowerment, encouraging members to treat each other like family and participate in social causes, making their impact felt far beyond the road.


For these women, motorcycling isn’t just a sport but a statement of liberation and defiance against societal norms. With every journey, The Bikerni redefines freedom and gender roles, inspiring women across India to embrace the open road. Together, they ride towards an empowered future.


In Pune, the Sahyadri Trail Seekers, a biker community established in 2022, organizes events like the ‘Giving Back Ride.’ On January 22, 2023, they rode to Ghogati Vasti near Chandar Village (Panshet). The kind villagers warmly welcomed them, and the bikers, in return, decided to assist the community by distributing household items for Ghogati Vasti and notebooks and books for school students in Chandar Village.


The event held on April 8-9, 2023, was one of their largest trail rides, combining social work with camping by Panshet Dam. The schedule included meet-ups, an exhilarating trail ride, distributing goods, and camping. Although contributions to the cause were encouraged, they were not mandatory.


The Sahyadri Trail Seekers’ efforts demonstrated the power of community and the positive impact bikers can have in supporting and uplifting those in need. Their dedication to social causes, such as donating books and stationery, highlights their commitment to making a meaningful difference in people’s lives.


Pradip Pawar, founder of the Sahyadri Trail Seekers and an avid biker and instructor, envisions expanding his community with the help of doctors to conduct safety awareness and first aid sessions. Additionally, he plans to collaborate with traffic police to raise awareness about traffic rules.


(The author is a media professional.)

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