The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has launched a bus service connecting Mumbai with Navi Mumbai International Airport, even as controversy continues over plans to shift some international flight operations from Mumbai's existing airport. Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik flagged off the Dadar–Navi Mumbai International Airport service on Wednesday, October 7, providing a direct public transport link to the new airport.
The bus service comes amid resistance from airlines to Adani Airports' plan to partially shift international flights to Navi Mumbai. The redevelopment plan for Terminal 1 at Mumbai's existing airport has added to the debate over how flight operations should be managed during the transition. The new bus connection is expected to provide an additional transport option for passengers travelling between central Mumbai and Navi Mumbai airport.
The launch has also become part of a wider political dispute over the proposed shift of flight operations. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray criticised the airport operator, accusing it of “fleecing” Mumbaikars and alleging that passengers were being pushed towards Navi Mumbai through a forced shift. His remarks came as airlines continued to resist aspects of the proposed operational changes.
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The Navi Mumbai International Airport is being positioned as an additional aviation hub for the Mumbai metropolitan region, while the existing airport remains a key gateway for the city. The proposed redistribution of flights has raised questions among airlines and political leaders about passenger convenience, airport operations and the practical implications of moving services between the two airports.
The MSRTC service from Dadar provides a direct road connection for passengers who need to reach the Navi Mumbai airport from Mumbai. The launch comes at a time when transport connectivity is an important part of preparations for increased passenger movement between the two airport locations. The service could offer passengers an alternative to other modes of travel as operations at Navi Mumbai International Airport expand.
The controversy over the proposed flight shift, however, remains unresolved. While the new MSRTC service adds a public transport link between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai International Airport, airlines continue to raise objections to aspects of the operational plan, and Aaditya Thackeray has criticised the airport operator's approach. The developments highlight the broader challenges involved in integrating the new airport into Mumbai's existing aviation and transport network.
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