Airlines are opposing the proposed temporary shift of international operations from Mumbai Airport to Navi Mumbai Airport, citing concerns over winter schedules, operational readiness, passenger convenience and higher user development fees (UDF).
Adani Airport Holdings Limited has asked airlines to provide details by October 6 on international slots they would discontinue at Mumbai Airport and potentially shift to Navi Mumbai. The move comes ahead of the redevelopment of Mumbai Airport’s Terminal 1, scheduled to begin in January 2027.
Around 265 of 770 weekly international departure slots, or about 33%, are expected to be temporarily discontinued from October 25. IndiGo faces the largest reduction at 74 weekly slots, followed by Air India with 33, Akasa Air with 11 and Air India Express with seven. International airlines including Emirates and Etihad Airways also face reductions.
Airlines argue that the winter schedule, running from late October 2026 to March 2027, has already been finalised and bookings may have been made. The International Air Transport Association has also raised concerns about ground handling, aircraft maintenance approvals, catering, cargo facilities, crew accommodation and airport connectivity.
Another issue is the higher UDF at Navi Mumbai Airport. The airport charges ₹1,225 for departing international passengers, compared with lower charges at Mumbai Airport.
Adani Airports has said airlines can relocate operations to Navi Mumbai at their discretion and that the airport has sufficient infrastructure and capacity. The operator also said Mumbai Airport’s T1 redevelopment will eventually increase terminal capacity by 33%, from 15 million to 20 million passengers annually.
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