Navi Mumbai Airport Runway Test: Rajnath Singh and Ram Mohan Naidu Invited

In a notable development for the Navi Mumbai Airport project, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu have been invited to observe a test of the newly completed runway at the greenfield airport. This invitation follows the cancellation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to the site on October 5.

## CIDCO and Adani Airports at the Helm

The City Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) is overseeing the construction of the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), with the project being executed by Adani Airports. With the runway now fully constructed, the focus is shifting towards its operational readiness.

## Political Context and Upcoming Milestones

As elections approach, the Shiv Sena-BJP and NCP-led government is keen to highlight its achievements, particularly with the first phase of the NMIA expected to be completed by March 2025. The runway test is seen as a pivotal step in demonstrating the project's progress and readiness for operations.

## Military Collaboration and Preparations

To showcase the airport’s capabilities, CIDCO has been coordinating with the Indian Air Force for a demonstration involving the landing of a C-130J transport plane and a Su-30 fighter aircraft on the 3,750-meter runway. A senior government official mentioned that although the Prime Minister was requested to witness the aircraft landings, his schedule was filled with commitments in Pohradevi and other engagements, including the inauguration of Mumbai Metro 3.

 Progress on Infrastructure Development

Recent months have seen significant advancements, including instrument landing system trials conducted by the Airport Authority of India. The main terminal building is nearing completion, and the state government has tasked CIDCO with preparing a detailed project report for a metro line connecting the airport to other key transit points. Additionally, CIDCO has issued a tender for a coastal road that will link the Atal Setu bridge to the NMIA.

With an investment of ₹16,000 crore, the Navi Mumbai Airport is anticipated to greatly enhance air connectivity in the region and alleviate congestion at the existing Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, further positioning Mumbai as a major aviation hub.