In a significant development for Maharashtra, the Indian Air Force’s C-295 aircraft made its inaugural landing at Navi Mumbai International Airport today. The event was witnessed by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and other dignitaries. The historic occasion is a major step forward in operationalizing the new airport, which is set to reduce the burden on the already congested Mumbai airport.
The landing of the C-295 was accompanied by an impressive flypast by Sukhoi fighter aircraft, adding to the grandeur of the moment. Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde, who also had the opportunity to fly in the C-295 aircraft, expressed his pride in the achievement, calling it a “historic day” for the state.
“It is a historic day. IAF’s C-295 aircraft landed here, and there was a flypast by Sukhoi fighter aircraft. This is a huge achievement,” CM Shinde said, emphasizing the importance of the event.
CM Shinde also announced that regular and commercial flights would commence from Navi Mumbai International Airport before March 2024. “Before March, regular and commercial flights will begin from here. It will reduce the load on Mumbai airport. We will connect Mumbai airport and Navi Mumbai airport by metro,” he added, highlighting plans to improve connectivity between the two airports via the metro.
The successful landing marks a key milestone in the development of Navi Mumbai International Airport, which is expected to play a crucial role in the state’s aviation sector. With the new airport set to ease the pressure on Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, the region is poised for enhanced air travel infrastructure and greater economic growth.
The C-295 aircraft, a tactical airlifter, is part of India’s modernization drive for its armed forces and represents the country’s growing capabilities in defense and aviation. The event at Navi Mumbai International Airport underscores the state’s readiness to handle advanced aviation operations, setting the stage for its future as a major aviation hub.
The flypast by Sukhoi fighter jets further symbolized the importance of the occasion, adding a sense of national pride and showcasing India’s formidable air power.
