Navi Mumbai Airport Delay Pushes Back Mumbai T1 Redevelopment
The redevelopment of Mumbai airport’s ageing Terminal 1 (T1) is likely to be delayed, as the Navi Mumbai airport is expected to take longer than initially anticipated to achieve operational stability. Terminal 1, which caters exclusively to domestic flights and handles around 14 million passengers annually, is slated for a complete overhaul. The current structure will be replaced by a modern terminal capable of accommodating up to 20 million passengers per year.
Earlier this year, in January, Adani Airport Holdings (AAHL) director Jeet Adani announced that the redevelopment of T1 would commence in November, with Navi Mumbai airport expected to handle the resulting capacity gap. However, the timeline now appears uncertain.
During a recent interaction with analysts, Jugeshinder Singh, Group Chief Financial Officer of Adani Enterprises, stated, “We have not finalised the start date (of the demolition of T1), but yes, we need to first stabilise the Navi Mumbai airport so that the airlines are comfortable operating there. Once we ourselves are confident of the operational stability of both airports, then only we will decide.”
He added, “It won’t be a rush, it won’t be near-term… Once we announce the proper transition to Navi Mumbai and the operational stabilisation of that airport, in consultation with airlines, we will determine what the best timing is (for the demolition of T1).”
The redevelopment plan for T1 includes significant infrastructure improvements such as district cooling systems, advanced electrical substations, and a more efficient baggage handling setup. It also aims to enhance passenger convenience through seamless connectivity, including direct metro access and underground bus terminals. AAHL has announced that the new terminal is expected to be inaugurated in 2028-29.
The Navi Mumbai airport, after missing two previous deadlines, is now expected to begin commercial operations in June. It will start with domestic services and expand to international flights a few months later. Once Phase 1 operations are stabilised, AAHL plans to begin work on Phase 2, which would increase the airport’s capacity from 20 million to 60 million passengers annually.
https://www.financialexpress.com/
#printpublication #modernaviationindia #NaviMumbaiAirport#AirportDelay#MumbaiAirportUpdate
