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Why are some international flights shifting to Navi Mumbai during T1 redevelopment?
MIAL is proposing to shift flights to 14 international destinations to NMIA during the redevelopment of Terminal 1 at CSMIA. This move has caused tension with foreign airlines, who are opposing the decision. The situation impacts travel operations and passenger experiences for Indian travellers.
By SafarSamachar Desk · 4 Nov 2026
Illustration1What is the proposed flight shift about?
MIAL is proposing to move flights to 14 international destinations from CSMIA to NMIA during the redevelopment of Terminal 1. This is intended to reduce operational congestion at CSMIA and make way for infrastructure upgrades.
2Which airlines are affected by this proposal?
The proposal affects both Indian and foreign airlines operating flights from Mumbai to 14 international destinations such as Bahrain, Doha, and Jakarta. Foreign airlines, including Emirates and Air France-KLM, have strongly opposed the move.
3When is the flight shift expected to take place?
The shift is expected to happen from March 28, 2027, during the redevelopment of Terminal 1. However, the exact timeline is still under negotiation as airlines have raised concerns about the transition.
4What are the implications of this shift for passengers?
Passengers may face logistical challenges such as longer transfer times and higher ticket prices due to increased charges at NMIA. There could also be disruptions in flight schedules and reduced convenience for those connecting through CSMIA.
5What do the airlines say about the proposed shift?
Foreign airlines have called the move unilateral and disruptive. They argue that the decision was made without proper consultation and may affect their existing commercial schedules. They have also raised concerns about higher operating costs at NMIA.
6What is the current status of the proposal?
The proposal has faced opposition from foreign airlines, who have petitioned the Civil Aviation Ministry to intervene. The ministry has asked MIAL and airlines to work out a mutually agreeable transition plan, and discussions are ongoing.
7What is the stance of domestic airlines on this proposal?
Domestic airlines, such as IndiGo and Air India, have been more flexible and have outlined phased transition plans to move some of their services to NMIA. They are not as opposed to the proposal as foreign carriers.
This explainer is based on our news report: MIAL proposes shifting flights to 14 international destinations to NMIA during T1 redevelopment, airlines oppose
Sources
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