The Ministry of Civil Aviation has issued a directive to major domestic airlines and Adani Airport Holdings Ltd (AAHL), mandating the submission of a comprehensive transition plan by October 20. This plan outlines the shift of international flight operations from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) in Mumbai to the newly developed Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA).
Why the Shift to Navi Mumbai Airport?
The move is primarily driven by the ongoing phased redevelopment of Terminal 1 at CSMIA, Mumbai. This ambitious project aims to increase Terminal 1's handling capacity from 15 million to 20 million passengers annually once completed. To facilitate this crucial upgrade without disrupting international travel, a portion of operations needs to be relocated.
Sources indicate that the Ministry is also considering a slight delay to the original transition timeline, allowing stakeholders more time to finalize the intricate operational details for moving up to 5 million international passengers annually to NMIA.
Stakeholder Consultations Underway
The directive followed a high-level meeting chaired by the Secretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation. Representatives from AAHL, the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the Federation of Indian Airlines (FIA), and various domestic airline operators participated. Airlines, including IndiGo, Air India, and Akasa Air, informed the Ministry that discussions with the airport operator regarding this proposed shift have been ongoing for approximately 18 months.
AAHL, which manages both Mumbai and Navi Mumbai airports, has affirmed NMIA's readiness to handle the increased international passenger volume. They highlighted the new airport's robust infrastructure, passenger facilities, and connectivity options, including inflight catering, hotels, and lounges.
Further consultations are scheduled for October 13, where stakeholders are expected to firm up the transition plan, followed by a final discussion on October 20.
Pending Issues: User Development Fee
A significant outstanding matter is the decision regarding the User Development Fee (UDF) at NMIA. This fee, a critical component of airport charges, is awaiting approval from the Ministry of Civil Aviation. The resolution of the UDF is vital for airlines to finalize their operational and commercial strategies for the upcoming transition to the Navi Mumbai airport.
The final schedule and the precise extent of operations to be transferred to NMIA will be determined following the outcomes of the October 13 and October 20 meetings.