Airports

Airports

CSMIA caters to record 55.5 mn pax in CY25

Mumbai, 8th January 2026: Closing calendar year 2025 on a strong note, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) recorded an overall passenger traffic of around 55.5 million in CY25, marking a steady year of growth alongside multiple operational milestones. The annual traffic included over 16.3 million international passengers and 39.2 million domestic passengers, reflecting a year-on-year growth of approximately 1.3% compared to CY24 with 54.8 million passengers, and an overall increase of 7.6% over CY 2023 passenger traffic numbers. Passenger movement at CSMIA during the year was driven by strong seasonal demand and peak travel periods. January 2025 emerged as the busiest month, with close to 5 million passengers, followed closely by November 2025 with approximately 4.9 million passengers. In November, the airport recorded its top three highest single-day passenger traffic figures, including its highest-ever single-day throughput of 1,75,925 passengers on 29 November 2025. The October–December quarter (Q4) also marked the highest quarterly passenger traffic, with 14.36 million passengers handled in Q4. Operational throughput at CSMIA also reached new highs during CY25. The airport handled a total of 3,31,011 Air Traffic Movements (ATMs), including 92,141 international and 2,38,870 domestic ATMs. A new record was also achieved on 21 November 2025, when CSMIA handled 1,036 ATMs, the highest number of ATMs recorded at CSMIA in a day. Overall, Air Traffic Movements at CSMIA have grown by approximately 25% from CY 2022. The airport also expended its connectivity adding several new routes to its network on both domestic and international sectors.

Airports

CSMIA commissions ‘Taxiway M’ to strengthen airside capacity and operational resilience

Mumbai, 30 December 2025: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), Mumbai has commissioned Taxiway M, a significant airside infrastructure upgrade designed to improve airside efficiency and operational resilience at one of the world’s busiest single-runway airports. CSMIA handles an average of 950+ aircraft traffic movements (ATMs) daily. This is primarily supported by the main runway 09/27 that handles high-intensity operations supported historically by a single Parallel Taxi Track (PTT) N–N1, which has remained in near-constant use due to the absence of an alternate full-length taxiway. Over time, sustained traffic levels and limited maintenance windows highlighted the need for an additional parallel taxiway to improve operational resilience and reduce dependency on a single taxi track. Taxiway M was conceived to address this critical requirement. However, the project involved substantial complexity, as the alignment was constrained by the presence of the Aerodrome Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) building located along the taxiway corridor. To ensure full-length connectivity of the Taxiway, CSMIA relocated the ARFF facility and commissioned a temporary main fire station, ensuring uninterrupted CAT-10 emergency response capabilities, while concurrently commencing construction of the new permanent ARFF station. Executed during the Fourth Control Period (FCP), the project progressed in multiple phases. Phase 1 connected Runway 14–32, followed by Phase 2 where a continuous parallel taxiway network was established. Despite the challenges of working within a highly constrained airside environment—surrounded by active taxiways on three sides and a runway on the fourth—the project was delivered through meticulous planning, close coordination with stakeholders, and fast-track execution. Uncharted utilities encountered during execution were also addressed through swift design modifications, enabling the project to remain on schedule. Taxiway M was commissioned on 25 December 2025, aligned with the Aeronautical Information Regulation and Control (AIRAC) cycle, after approximately 240 days of construction, including the monsoon period. Despite the early monsoon onset and seasonal transitions, the timely delivery reflects the preparedness, foresight, and execution discipline of the CSMIA team, along with timely approvals from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The new parallel Taxiway M delivers operational benefits by enabling more efficient departure sequencing, allowing aircrafts to move onto the runway and take-off promptly, and allow aircrafts to queue on the taxiway while awaiting take-off clearance. This significantly improves departure capacity during peak periods while offering greater flexibility to air traffic controllers in managing airside traffic flows. The parallel taxiway also provides an alternate routing option during planned maintenance or unforeseen disruptions, enhancing overall operational resilience. From an environmental standpoint, reduced taxi distances and shorter ground holding times contribute to lower fuel consumption and reduced carbon emissions, thus reinforcing CSMIA’s commitment to sustainable airport operations. With Taxiway M now operational, CSMIA is in a better positioned to manage current traffic volumes while creating headroom for future growth, ensuring smoother, safer and more reliable airport operations. (News published unedited on as shared basis )

Airports

NMIA records impressive passenger load on first day

Navi Mumbai, 26 December,2025: Passenger load at Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) recorded a marked rise on December 25, the first day of passenger operations, fuelled by heightened traveller interest and start commercial operations.The overnight spurt in passenger load points to a positive response from travellers. A day earlier, on December 24, passenger load levels stood at 71 percent for arrivals and 83 percent for departures. With the start of scheduled operations on December 25, arrival load increased to 85 percent, while departure load climbed to 98 percent, reflecting a strong jump in booking levels as operations commenced on 25th December. On the first day of operations on 25 December, the airport recorded a total passenger throughput of 4,922, with 2,278 arriving passengers and 2,644 departing passengers, indicating strong demand from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. On 26 December, passenger traffic increased further, with the airport handling a total of 5,028 passengers.

Airports

NMIA set to open tomorrow, expanding Mumbai’s aviation capacity

Mumbai, 24 December, 2025: Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) will begin commercial flight operations tomorrow, December 25, marking a key milestone for India’s civil aviation sector and expanding capacity for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). The opening adds a critical new gateway for a region that has faced sustained congestion for over a decade. Planned as part of a distributed aviation framework, NMIA supports Mumbai’s transition to a multi-airport system aimed at improving capacity, operational resilience and long-term scalability. On Day One, domestic services will be operated by IndiGo, Air India Express, Akasa Air and Star Air, connecting NMIA to nine destinations across India. The airport will handle 15 scheduled departures on the first day. During the initial phase, NMIA will operate between 08:00 hrs and 20:00 hrs, with up to 24 scheduled daily departures to 13 destinations and the capability to manage up to 10 aircraft movements per hour. From February 2026, operations are planned to progressively scale up to round-the-clock services. NMIA was inaugurated by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 8. Since 2021, Adani Airports Holdings Limited (AAHL), a subsidiary of Adani Enterprises Limited (AEL), has led the development, construction, and operational readiness of the greenfield airport, progressing it from accelerated construction to phased commercial operations within a compressed timeframe. Passenger services from day one will be supported by Digi Yatra–enabled contactless processing at designated touchpoints, along with trained terminal staff across kerbside, check-in, security and boarding areas. Retail and food and beverage offerings have been curated with a focus on affordability and local relevance. Inspired by the lotus, India’s national flower, the terminal architecture integrates cultural identity with contemporary design and sustainability features. In its initial phase, NMIA is designed to handle 20 million passengers per annum (MPPA), with future expansion planned to scale capacity up to 90 MPPA, supported by dedicated cargo terminals and multimodal connectivity. With operations set to begin tomorrow, NMIA is expected to strengthen Mumbai’s role as a global gateway and support long-term economic growth through expanded aviation capacity.

Airports

Guwahati gets new airport terminal, inaugurated by the PM

Guwahati, 20 December 2025: The Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi inaugurated the new terminal at Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (LGBIA) at Guwahati during the Advantage Assam 2.0 celebrations. The airport operations will commence by the end of February while a comprehensive Operational Readiness and Airport Transfer (ORAT) programme—supported by an expert visiting team from Munich, Germany—has ensured that systems, processes, personnel and passenger flows are aligned for a safe and seamless opening from day one. Envisioned as a modern gateway rooted in regional identity, the terminal—aptly named “The Bamboo Orchids”—draws inspiration from Assam’s iconic kopou phool (foxtail orchid) and indigenous bamboo varieties such as Bholuka bamboo from Assam and Apatani bamboo from Arunachal Pradesh. Blending natural materials, abundant daylight and contemporary design, the architecture reflects the Northeast’s ecological and cultural richness. Around 140 metric tonnes of locally sourced bamboo from the region have been used across the terminal, positioning it among India’s most prominent examples of nature-inspired airport architecture where traditional craftsmanship is reimagined through modern engineering. The project has been developed by Guwahati International Airport Limited, with operations led by Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL). While inaugurating, the PM described it as part of a wider Vikas ka Utsav unfolding in Assam across the Northeast. He noted that Assam is emerging as India’s eastern gateway under the Act East policy, with the bamboo-rich terminal symbolising strength, sustainability and the state’s growing role in powering Viksit Bharat, as India advances toward becoming the world’s third-largest economy. Commenting on the occasion, Gautam Adani, Chairman, Adani Group, said, “The Guwahati terminal demonstrates how world-class airport infrastructure can be delivered swiftly while remaining deeply rooted in local identity. It will strengthen connectivity, support economic growth across the Northeast, and offer passengers a seamless, modern travel experience.” Equipped with DigiYatra-enabled processing, smart check-in systems and expansive passenger areas, the terminal is designed to handle 13.1 million passengers annually by 2032. In FY 2024–25, Guwahati Airport handled 6.50 million passengers, underscoring the region’s accelerating aviation demand. Currently, Guwahati ranks as the 10th busiest airport in India, serving as a critical hub for all eight Northeastern states. The overall airport development represents an investment of Rs 5,000 crore, including Rs 1,000 crore earmarked for Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facilities. Planned integrated domestic and international cargo infrastructure will further strengthen trade, logistics and employment generation across the region. The Guwahati milestone forms part of a wider national aviation expansion led by AAHL, with execution momentum continuing through the scheduled operational launch of the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) on December 25—one of India’s largest greenfield airport projects.

Airports

CSMIA achieves Level 5 of Airport Carbon Accreditation

Mumbai, 11 December 2025: CSMIA operated by Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL), has been awarded Level 5 accreditation under Airport Carbon Accreditation programme – the highest recognition within the globally recognised framework. This achievement recognises that CSMIA has achieved operational net-zero emissions (Scope 1 & 2) and has a validated roadmap to achieve net-zero Scope 3 emissions by 2050. This reflects CSMIA’s sustained, data-driven approach to carbon management, rooted in the principle of ‘Measure, Manage, Reduce and Communicate’, supported by a strong ESG policy framework and a cross-functional carbon management committee. With this accreditation, CSMIA joins a select group of 30 airports worldwide, including seven in the Asia-Pacific region and four in India, that have demonstrated advanced decarbonisation maturity. The Airport Carbon Accreditation programme is the industry standard for the assessment of an airport’s efforts to manage and reduce carbon emissions, where Level 5 represents the highest standard. Among other accreditations, CSMIA also is the first airport in India – and only the third worldwide – to achieve Level 5 Accreditation for Airport Customer Experience from Airports Council International (ACI). Speaking on the achievement, MIAL Spokesperson said, “This accreditation places CSMIA among the world’s leading airports that is committed to ensuring sustainable aviation operations. CSMIA will continue its efforts to blend innovation with environmental responsibility, setting new benchmarks for the global aviation ecosystem. Sustainability is a long-term responsibility, and we are proud to be at the forefront of driving this shift within India’s aviation industry”. Stefano Baronci, Director General of ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East said: “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport has always demonstrated strong leadership in advancing environmental sustainability. Achieving Level 5 of the Airport Carbon Accreditation Programme reflects their sustained effort and collaboration with stakeholders to reduce emissions, and this accomplishment aligns perfectly with airport industry’s shared vision of achieving net zero goals by 2050. Airports in India continue to be at the forefront of environmental stewardship. With four Indian airports achieving ACA Level 5 accreditation, Asia-Pacific & Middle East region is the second in the world with a total of seven L5 accredited airports. We hope this milestone encourages other airports in the region to continue strengthening their environmental performance and contributing to a more sustainable aviation sector.” The accreditation reflects MIAL’s sustained climate initiatives at CSMIA, supported by cross-functional governance, long-term investment in green technologies, and collaboration with aviation stakeholders. A cross functional carbon management committee at MIAL drives year-on-year emission reduction planning and performance tracking. Reinforcing these efforts, MIAL introduced its ESG policy in June 2022 and revised it in May 2025, highlighting the effort to maintain over 90 percent reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions and attain Net Zero for Scope 3 through the adoption of green and efficient technologies. In FY 2025, the airport reported Scope 1 emissions of 566.3 tCO2e, Scope 2 emissions at zero, and Scope 3 at 5,158,197. Progress Towards Net Zero Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL) has already eliminated emissions from its own operations (Scope 1 & 2) and is now focused on reducing indirect Scope 3 emissions through structural, collaborative, and technology-driven interventions. These measures have collectively led to a >98% reduction in absolute emissions in scope1 & 2 since FY2022, marking a decisive shift towards low-carbon airport operations. MIAL has undertaken several transformative sustainability initiatives since FY2022, following its achievement of the prestigious ACA Level 4+ certification, including: • 100 percent renewable electricity since August 2022 • Over 40 percent improvement in energy intensity (FY2025 vs FY2022) – through extensive upgrades such as converting belt-driven AHU fans to EC fans, transitioning entirely to LED lighting, and deploying advanced automation and high-efficiency inverter air-conditioning systems. • Full transition to electric airport vehicle fleet • Replacement of high-GWP refrigerants and CO₂-based fire systems with eco-friendly alternatives and fully decarbonized its ground fleet by converting all internal combustion engine vehicles to electric vehicles. • Deployment of energy-efficient HVAC systems, LEDs, and automation tools • Strengthened carbon governance via updated ESG policy in May 2025 MIAL’s climate strategy aligns with global reporting frameworks (GRI, ISO 14064-1:2018) and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, while prioritising sector transitions such as Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and a decarbonised airport ecosystem. The airport publishes annual sustainability reports to ensure transparent disclosures and performance benchmarking. Sustainability remains central to MIAL’s vision, driving continuous innovation and responsible growth. By integrating global standards and aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, CSMIA continues to shape a greener, more resilient future for the aviation industry. (Pix Courtesy: MIAL/CSMIA)

Airports

AAI’ s Pavilion earns Gold Award at IITF 2025

New Delhi, 28th November,2025: The Airports Authority of India (AAI) concluded its vibrant participation at the 44th India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2025, New Delhi, with a grand closing ceremony by bagging the prestigious gold award under PSU category for the pavilion’s outstanding design, immersive digital experience, and impactful representation of India’s evolving aviation ecosystem. Vipin Kumar, Chairman, Airports Authority of India received the award from Dr. Neeraj Kharwal, MD, India Trade Promotion Organization (ITPO) for its innovative approach in showcasing India’s aviation advancements. Built around the theme “Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat,” the pavilion drew strong appreciation and marked celebration of 150 years of Vande Mataram by inspiring visitors and students with patriotic enthusiasm. Throughout the fair, the pavilion captivated attendees with its futuristic LED archway, dynamic anamorphic display walls, and interactive touch kiosks featuring key initiatives such as UDAN, the Start-up Policy, AAI–Routes Asia 2025, and India’s Air Connectivity Map. A digital flip book highlighting airports as cultural and architectural icons added to the pavilion’s appeal. Visitors were further engaged through activities like the Air Quiz and an AI- powered Selfie Zone that allowed them to transform into digital avatars of aviation professionals. The dedicated Briefing Zone also hosted informative sessions for students and media, offering deeper insights into AAI’s operations and vision. Major highlights of the pavilion were ATC Demonstration, state-of-the-art ATC– CNS Console and exhibits showcasing modern Communication, Navigation, and Surveillance technologies, the demonstration underscored India’s progress in advanced air traffic management. As IITF 2025 comes to a close, AAI’s award-winning pavilion inaugurated by Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, Hon’ble Union Minister of Civil aviation, stands as a testament to its commitment to innovation, technology, safety, and sustainability. The Airports Authority of India continues to play a vital role in advancing the national vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047, with aviation serving as a key catalyst for connectivity, economic development, and inclusive growth.

Airports

Alstef Group signs contract for complete baggage handling system at Bodø Airport, Norway

Norway, 24th Nov 2025: Alstef Group has signed a contract with Hent, the general contractor for airport operator Avinor, for the design and delivery of a complete inbound and outbound baggage handling system at Bodø Airport, Norway’s sixth-largest airport. “Alstef Group went through a tough and thorough procurement phase, leading HENT to start a year-long design and cooperation phase with them for the new Bodø Airport. During this design and cooperation stage, Alstef has shown that they are very well equipped and capable of solving the unique challenges that the new Bodø Airport presents. As a result, we at HENT have decided to award them the turnkey contract for the BHS at the new Bodø Airport”stated a HENT spokesperson. The departure system scope includes check-in conveyors, transport lines to the hold baggage screening, an automatic sortation solution, 24 make-up chutes, transfer lines, and barcode readers. For arrivals, the system will feature three new reclaim carousels (two inclined and one flat), complete with feed lines and barcode readers. The project also includes SCADA integration and a Sortation Allocation Control (SAC) system to ensure a fully operational, reliable, and future-ready baggage handling system. Following several months of detailed design collaboration, Alstef Group is looking forward to working with Hent on behalf of Avinor to deliver this project. The award of this contract reflects Alstef Group’s proven expertise in providing complete, efficient, and integrated baggage handling solutions in operational airports. “We are confident that Alstef’s expertise, know-how, and knowledge will benefit HENT, the client, and the city of Bodø in creating a baggage handling system that will take the airport into the future. Alstef’s proven track record on major international airports, as well as their impressive software and PLC departments, has impressed us at HENT.”

Airports

NMIAL & Apollo Hospitals partners to deliver 24×7 healthcare at NMIA

Mumbai, 04 November 2025: Navi Mumbai International Airport and Apollo Hospitals, Mumbai have signed a MoU to provide comprehensive, round-the-clock healthcare services for both airport employees and passengers. The collaboration strengthens NMIA’s emergency preparedness and medical response capabilities ahead of the start of commercial operations. Under the agreement, the hospital will help set up a 24×7 medical centre at Terminal 1 which will be equipped with emergency medical support and disaster management facilities. It will be staffed by a highly skilled team comprising three doctors, eight nursing staff and two drivers, ensuring continuous medical readiness. All medical staff will be Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS)-certified, guaranteeing the highest standards of critical care at NMIA. NMIA will also house two fully equipped Intensive Care Unit (ICU) ambulances, stationed on-site and ready for immediate response in emergency situations. Additionally, 65 Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) will be strategically installed across the terminals to provide rapid assistance during cardiac emergencies. This partnership ensures rapid and efficient medical response while reinforcing NMIA’s commitment to the health, safety and welfare of both passengers and employees with world-class infrastructure. Apollo Hospitals, Mumbai is located four kilometres from NMIA.

Airports

Alliance Aviation opens first purpose-built general aviation hangar and FBO facility in AlUla

Riyadh, 30th October 2025: Alliance Aviation has officially announced the opening of its new hangar and Fixed Base Operation (FBO) facility at AlUla International Airport, marking a milestone as the Kingdom’s first purpose-built general aviation hangar. The announcement was made during the 9th Future Investment Initiative (FII) in Riyadh, held under the theme “The Key To Prosperity: Unlocking New Frontiers Of Growth”. Developed in partnership with the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), the facility reflects both parties’ commitment to transforming AlUla into a leading cultural and aviation hub under Vision 2030 and Masterplan 2. “This launch is a milestone for Alliance and for Saudi Arabia’s private aviation future,” said Brendan McQuaid, Founder of Alliance Aviation. “We are proud to partner with the Royal Commission for AlUla in creating a facility that reflects the region’s heritage, hospitality, and the Kingdom’s vision for world-class infrastructure. AlUla is not just a destination, it’s becoming an aviation hub that bridges culture, commerce, and connectivity.” A New Milestone for Business Aviation in the Kingdom The new hangar spans 2,850 square meters and can accommodate up to two Gulfstream G650s and one Challenger 650, or two large-cabin aircraft and two light jets, offering secure, climate-controlled hangarage and dedicated crew facilities. The facility offers private and business jets ground handling, VIP lounge access, and seamless transfers for passengers as well as direct aircraft access for crews. Onsite amenities include a crew rest and operations area, ground handling and line maintenance support, high-speed connectivity, and 24/7 security and access control. Supporting AlUla’s Vision for Sustainable Growth Alliance Aviation will manage and operate the facility, providing ground handling, hangarage, and aircraft management services to private and business aircraft operators. This partnership supports the Kingdom’s goal of positioning AlUla as a model for sustainable tourism, investment, and innovation, aiming to attract two million annual visitors and contribute SAR 150 billion to Saudi Arabia’s GDP by 2035. The new facility complements other major upgrades at AlUla International Airport, including expanded taxiways and apron areas, a new executive terminal, and the introduction of virtual air traffic control systems making it one of the most advanced regional airports in the Kingdom. The AlUla launch forms part of Alliance’s broader strategy to expand its presence in high-growth regions for business aviation.

FOREWORD

Dear Readers,

 

Welcome to the latest edition of Aviation World. This is an incredibly significant issue for us, perfectly timed to align with several prominent aviation events unfolding across the globe.

 

Chief among them is the Farnborough International Airshow, taking place from July 20th to 24th, 2026, in Hampshire, United Kingdom. Ranked as one of the world’s premier events for aviation, aerospace, and defense, this year’s airshow arrives at a crucial moment. Against a backdrop of geopolitical turbulence, Farnborough provides an invaluable platform to engage with global leaders and gain firsthand perspectives on the future of the industry. Inside, you will find our comprehensive curtain-raiser report focusing on the show’s core themes, as well as the highly anticipated static and aerobatic aircraft displays.

 

On our front cover, we are proud to feature Capt. Vaibhav Goutham Suresh, Director of the School of Aviation, Logistics and Tourism Management (SALTM) at Galgotias University. In an exclusive interview, Capt. Suresh highlights how SALTM bridges the gap between academia and the runway, delivering a comprehensive curriculum that ensures graduates are industry-ready from day one. Complementing this, our special feature on SALTM dives deeper into how the institution maintains world-class academic standards and a cutting-edge learning environment.

 

We are also privileged to bring you exclusive insights from a stellar lineup of industry trailblazers in this edition, including:

  • Robin Glover-Faure, Chief Customer Officer of Acron Aviation
  • Karim Makhlouf, CCO of Royal Jordanian Airlines
  • Pallavi Joshi & Vimal Priya, the leadership powerhouse behind AirFleet Managers &Aviatrics Global
  • Wg. Cdr. Prem Kumar Garg (Retd.), CEO of IndiaOne Air

Each shares a detailed perspective on driving innovation, navigating current market dynamics, and establishing progressive frontiers within their respective sectors.

 

Beyond these highlights, this issue is packed with curated features and analytical pieces designed to keep you informed and inspired.

 

Finally, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed advertisers and partners. Your unwavering support empowers us in our ongoing endeavor to make Aviation World a truly world-class publication with global reach and recognition.

 

Happy Reading!

 

The Editorial Team

 

Aviation World

NEWSLETTER

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We have started 2026 on a very positive note and we look forward to increase our footprints to more locations and induct many more new companies in our campaign.. Do write to us at : editor@aviationworld.in

Disclaimer

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