Airports

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.

Airports

Liege Airport and Chicago Rockford Int. Airport sign sister airport agreement

Liege, October 30, 2025: Liege Airport (LGG) and Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) have officially signed a sister airport relationship agreement during the Air Cargo South East Asia event in Singapore.This partnership marks a new chapter in transatlantic air cargo collaboration, reinforcing both airports’ commitment to innovation, growth, and operational excellence. The agreement was signed in the presence of senior executives from both airports and industry leaders attending the event. It establishes a formal framework for close cooperation with the goal of: • Increasing freighter traffic between both airports • Launching joint marketing and sales initiatives to attract new cargo operators and logistics partners to both platforms • Collaborating on operational and digital projects to streamline processes and enhance service quality “This agreement is a testament to our shared vision for the future of air cargo,” said Torsten Wefers, VP Sales & Marketing of Liege Airport. “Together with Chicago Rockford International Airport, we are building a robust transatlantic corridor that will benefit shippers, carriers, and the global supply chain.” “Liege and Rockford are both cargo-centric airports with complementary strengths,” added Zachary Oakley, Executive Director of RFD. “This partnership formalizes our collaboration and sets the stage for exciting new opportunities.” The signing ceremony took place earlier today at the Air Cargo South East Asia event, a premier gathering of global air cargo professionals. The sister airport agreement is expected to accelerate growth and deepen ties between the two logistics hubs.

Airports

Arlanda first in Europe with new air traffic approach concept

Swedan, October 21, 2025: Swedavia and Luftfartsverket are the first in Europe to introduce a new air traffic approach concept. The new concept is commonly referred to as Established on RNP (EoR) and makes it possible for aircraft arriving at Stockholm Arlanda Airport to fly with curved approaches to a greater extent than before. The concept is an important step towards increasing the capacity, efficiency and sustainability of air traffic. “For us, it is of course gratifying that Swedavia will be the first in Europe to apply the new concept for managing arrivals. Enabling more curved approaches is also the most effective way to support airlines in their transition work, in addition to facilitating increased use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF),” says Susanne Norman, Director of Operations at Swedavia. The new approach concept allows the airport to increase the landing rate per hour and reduces emissions, both for the aircraft flying the shorter, curved approach and for those flying the standard instrument landing approach. This is because fewer aircraft have to use the runway dedicated for arrivals, reducing the queue for that runway. To be able to fly curved approaches, airlines must have a special permit from their National Supervisory Authority. “The modernization of the airspace by Luftfartsverket shows how air traffic control can help reduce the environmental impact of aviation. The traffic flow into Stockholm Arlanda Airport becomes more efficient during peak hours, and arriving aircraft have shorter flight paths with reduced emissions, says Anna Granberg,” Director of Operations at Luftfartsverket. “We are very pleased with the initiative from Swedavia and the Swedish Air Traffic Control Provider (LFV) to implement new procedures that will increase the number of curved approaches (RNP AR – Required Navigation Performance, Authorization Required) at Arlanda. We would like to commend them for this effort and for the excellent cooperation we have had throughout the project. Shorter approaches result in lower fuel burn and reduced emissions. Our goal is to reduce emissions by 30 percent by 2030, and more efficient flight operations like this are among our top priorities — alongside increased use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and continuous fleet renewal, says Charlotte Holmbergh,” Country Director Corporate Affairs at Norwegian. “SAS welcomes all initiatives that help reduce fuel consumption, noise, and emissions. The introduction of the new approach concept is a step in the right direction towards a more efficient and more sustainable airspace around Arlanda,” says Alexandra Lindgren Kaoukji, Head of External Communication & PR at SAS. Facts The technique for curved approaches requires special equipment in the aircraft, specially trained pilots and special permission from their National Supervisory Authority. In addition to reducing the environmental impact, the introduction of the new approach concept also provides an incentive for airlines to invest in technique for curved approaches which, in the long run, makes it possible to avoid flying over noise-sensitive areas.

FOREWORD

Dear Reader’s,

 

The current edition of Aviation World has covered many areas of Aerospace & Defence based on the latest development in the sector. The front cover highlights three different images, first for the Union Civil Aviation Minister ….. who is leading from the front to steer Indian Civil Aviation sector to witness one of the most interesting phases. He is also facing most tumultuous timing due to the ongoing financial stress in the Aviation sector due to ATF rising cost and long airspace restrictions resulting in mounting losses for Indian carriers. Despite of all the ground level challenges,the minister is addressing new things on regular basis which keeps the sector motivated. We have featured many such developmental works in this edition done under his guidance which will be interesting to read.

Our lead story on “ The West War” is another important feature which covers the ground level reality of the challenges faced by the Aviation sector. Its though time ahead and we believe it will pass soon .

There are features on Regional connectivity and MoCA revised rules on the UDAN 2.0 and how its going to transform the flying experience within India.

In this edition, we have covered topics on MRO,Various Policy changes,Sea Plane Operations by SkyHop Aviation, TATA-Airbus joint project on C295 military aircraft under Make In India which is expected to roll out soon and many other interesting contents which will be good to read.

We are covering Farnborough International Airshow 2026 from 20-24July 2026 in London and our next edition will be based on the same event.For features, you may contact our team on priority basis.

 

Happy Reading!

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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