Navi Mumbai Airport Set to Redefine Travel: Curated Cuisine, Calm Zones & A Quick Escape to Lonavala
Big Update: Navi Mumbai Airport Set to Open on This Date
Soon, flying out of Navi Mumbai won’t just be about getting from one place to another—it could also mean indulging in authentic local food, enjoying immersive cultural experiences, and even sneaking in a scenic getaway. The much-anticipated Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), nearing its grand opening expected in late August, is preparing to transform how travellers experience airports in India.
Ditching the typical food court setup common at most airports, NMIA is introducing a thoughtfully designed food hall that promises a taste of Mumbai on every plate. Forget about fast food chains and repetitive menus—this new space will feature handpicked culinary offerings that reflect the city’s vibrant and diverse food culture. And it’s not just about flavour. The menus will cater to a wide range of dietary needs, including vegan, Jain, and diabetic-friendly options. As one senior airport official explained, “Our food hall is designed to feel upscale in ambience but won’t come with an upscale price tag. The aim is to let every traveller enjoy high-quality, Mumbai-inspired meals without stretching their wallets.”
Once through security, travellers will walk into what the airport calls its experiential zone—a unique area designed to help calm pre-flight nerves. This space will combine digital displays and physical installations celebrating iconic monuments and cultural elements from Mumbai, Maharashtra, and across India. It’s a sensory journey meant to entertain and ease anxiety, offering passengers a moment to relax and soak in a sense of place before they fly.
Interestingly, NMIA also plans to welcome those who aren’t flying. A separate space outside the terminal is being developed for non-passengers, including a food court filled with familiar restaurant and coffee shop chains. There’ll also be a gaming zone for casual entertainment, a drivers’ canteen for those waiting in their vehicles, and a designated lounge area to make everyone—traveller or not—feel included. The official noted, “We’ve created areas where even those coming to drop off or receive someone can relax, eat, and enjoy their time. They’re part of the travel story too, and we didn’t want them to be left out.”
One of the airport’s most exciting offerings, still under development, is a service that could completely redefine layovers and pre-flight wait times. NMIA is working on short sightseeing trips to Lonavala and other scenic destinations nearby—ideal for travellers with long layovers or those arriving early. Imagine this: you land in Mumbai with a few hours to spare, hop on a curated tour to Lonavala, enjoy a meal in the hills, take in some fresh air and views, and return just in time to catch your connecting flight. “We’re designing it in such a way that the whole trip—from departure to return—fits within a five to six-hour window,” said the official. “Thanks to improved access through Atal Setu, we’re also exploring other must-visit locations in and around Mumbai that could be included in this offering.”
Developed as a joint venture between Adani Airports Holding Ltd and CIDCO, NMIA is more than just a second airport for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region—it’s shaping up to be a destination in itself. With its blend of local food culture, passenger comfort, and short travel experiences, NMIA is rewriting the rules of what an airport can be.
