In a significant development for India's aviation sector, Air India Express has announced the launch of direct international flights between Navi Mumbai and Abu Dhabi, making it the first airline to operate overseas services from the newly developed Navi Mumbai International Airport. The new route is scheduled to commence on July 15, 2026, further strengthening air connectivity between India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The launch marks a major milestone for Navi Mumbai International Airport as it enters the global aviation network with direct access to one of the Middle East's key destinations. The service is expected to benefit business travelers, tourists, and the large Indian expatriate community residing in the UAE.
Direct Navi Mumbai to Abu Dhabi Flights Begin in July
Air India Express will initially operate the Navi Mumbai–Abu Dhabi route twice a week starting July 15, 2026. The airline plans to increase the frequency later in the month based on demand and operational expansion.
Passengers can already book tickets through the airline's official website, mobile application, and authorized travel booking platforms. The new service provides travelers across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region with an additional and convenient gateway to Abu Dhabi, reducing congestion at Mumbai's existing airport while offering greater travel flexibility.
Navi Mumbai International Airport Expands Global Reach
With the introduction of Abu Dhabi services, Air India Express will operate approximately 30 weekly flights from Navi Mumbai, connecting the airport with major destinations including Abu Dhabi, Delhi, and Bengaluru.
The airline continues to expand its footprint across Maharashtra, operating more than 95 weekly flights from Mumbai, over 100 weekly flights from Pune, and 14 weekly services from Nagpur. This expansion reflects the airline's commitment to strengthening domestic and international connectivity from key Indian cities.
Strengthening India-West Asia Aviation Network
Air India Express remains one of the leading carriers connecting India with West Asia. Its extensive network links multiple Indian cities to major destinations across Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
The addition of Abu Dhabi from Navi Mumbai is expected to further enhance trade, tourism, and business exchanges between India and the Gulf region while providing more travel options for passengers.
Industry Outlook
The launch of direct international flights from Navi Mumbai International Airport highlights India's growing aviation infrastructure and increasing demand for international air travel. As passenger traffic continues to rise, the airport is expected to emerge as a key aviation hub serving both domestic and global routes.
(Inputs from Agency)