India’s first offshore airport to be built near Mumbai, BA News, BA

India is set to build its first offshore airport on an artificial island near the Vadhvan seaport, near Mumbai. Inspired by global models such as Hong Kong and Osaka’s offshore airports, the project aims to boost aviation capacity and ease congestion at Mumbai’s existing airports.

The Vadhvan Airport project has secured initial approvals from the Union Environment and Defence ministries, as well as Maharashtra’s state government. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) will now conduct a feasibility study to evaluate investment requirements, environmental impact, and overall viability, as per a report by Times Property.

Located about 125 km from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), Vadhvan Airport is expected to play a crucial role in India’s expanding aviation network. It will be well-connected to key infrastructure projects, including the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train, the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, and the Mumbai-Vadodara highway. These transport links are expected to improve accessibility and strengthen Mumbai’s position as a global business hub.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed that the central government has approved the airport as part of a larger vision to develop a “third Mumbai” in the Palghar-Vasai-Virar region. The plan includes a new seaport, high-speed rail, and other infrastructure to drive economic growth in the area.

Despite its potential, experts have raised concerns about the project’s financial feasibility. Passenger demand, air traffic volume, and environmental challenges will determine the airport’s long-term success. In the past, smaller airports in India have struggled to attract steady traffic, raising questions about sustainability.

At present, Mumbai has two major airports—CSMIA and the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), which is set to begin operations in mid-2025. Initially, NMIA will handle domestic flights from May, followed by international flights around June or July.

The proposed Vadhvan Airport marks a major step in addressing Mumbai’s rising air traffic demands. If successfully executed, it could significantly enhance India’s aviation sector and boost regional economic activity.