Air India Express has launched direct flights between Navi Mumbai International Airport and Abu Dhabi, becoming the first airline to operate international services from Maharashtra’s newest airport.
The new route will provide travelers across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region with an additional gateway to the UAE while improving connectivity and travel options.
The service will commence on July 15, 2026, with an initial frequency of two weekly flights operating on Wednesdays and Fridays.
From July 29, 2026, the frequency will increase to three weekly flights with the addition of Sunday services. Bookings are now open through the airline’s website, mobile application, and other authorized booking channels.
With the launch of the Abu Dhabi route, Air India Express will operate 30 weekly flights from Navi Mumbai International Airport, connecting the airport directly with Abu Dhabi, Bengaluru, and Delhi.
Air India Express currently operates more than 95 weekly flights from Mumbai, over 100 weekly flights from Pune, and 14 weekly flights from Nagpur.
The addition of Navi Mumbai further strengthens the airline’s presence in the state and provides additional capacity for passengers traveling from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
Strengthening India-West Asia connectivity
Air India Express operates one of the largest networks between India and West Asia, connecting several Indian cities with destinations across Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
The Navi Mumbai-Abu Dhabi route further expands the airline’s international network and offers an additional travel option for passengers traveling between India and the UAE.
Air India Express stated that the new route supports the continued expansion of its domestic and international network.
The airline also highlighted its recently launched ‘Xpress Wali Baat Hai’ campaign featuring actor Pankaj Tripathi, which showcases services including comfortable seating, Gourmair hot meals, onboard hospitality, and an expanding network connecting domestic and international destinations.
