Why Navi Mumbai Airport is Better for Pune Travelers
The Game Changer for Pune-Mumbai Travel
For decades, Pune travelers heading to international destinations had only one option: navigate through Mumbai's chaotic traffic to reach Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. That's about to change.
Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMI), opening in 2025, is positioned perfectly for Pune travelers. It's closer, faster to reach, and bypasses Mumbai's notorious traffic jams entirely.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Factor | Navi Mumbai Airport | Mumbai Airport |
|---|---|---|
| Distance from Pune | 110 km | 130 km |
| Journey Time | 2-2.5 hours | 2.5-3.5 hours |
| Cab Cost | Rs.2,200-3,200 | Rs.2,700-3,800 |
| City Traffic | Minimal (5-10 min) | Heavy (45-90 min) |
| Journey Predictability | High (±15 min) | Low (±30-45 min) |
| Toll Plazas | 3 plazas (Rs.245) | 5 plazas (Rs.360) |
| Best For |
|
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Bottom Line
Unless your specific flight is only available at Mumbai Airport, Navi Mumbai Airport is the clear winner for Pune travelers. You'll save 30-45 minutes, Rs.500-600, and a lot of stress from unpredictable city traffic.
Complete Route Guide: Pune to Navi Mumbai Airport
Step-by-Step Directions
- 1
Start from Pune
Head towards Mumbai-Pune Expressway entry point at Kiwale (near Hinjewadi). From different Pune locations:
- • Hinjewadi: 10 min to expressway entry
- • Kharadi/Viman Nagar: 30-40 min via Pune-Bangalore Highway
- • Koregaon Park: 35-45 min via Swargate
- • Kothrud/Deccan: 25-35 min via Chandni Chowk
- 2
Take Mumbai-Pune Expressway
Enter the expressway and drive for 68 km. You'll pass through 3 toll plazas:
- • Km 12: Talegaon Toll (Rs.85)
- • Km 42: Khandala Toll (Rs.75) - scenic ghat section
- • Km 68: Khalapur Toll (Rs.90) - YOUR EXIT
Time: 55-70 minutes
- 3
Exit at Khalapur Toll Plaza
After passing through Khalapur toll, look for clear signage indicating "Navi Mumbai Airport" / "NMI" / "Panvel-Uran Road". The airport has excellent signage from 2025.
Important: Do NOT continue on the expressway to Urse/Vashi tolls. Exit at Khalapur (Km 68).
- 4
Take Panvel-Uran Road
Follow the airport access road via Panvel-Uran Highway. This is a well-maintained 4-lane road with minimal traffic.
- • Distance: 15-20 km
- • Time: 20-30 minutes
- • Road condition: Excellent
- 5
Reach Navi Mumbai Airport
Follow dedicated airport access road with clear terminal signage. The airport has modern drop-off zones with ample parking.
Total Journey: 110 km • 2-2.5 hours • Rs.245 tolls
Route Map Overview
Best Times to Travel & Traffic Patterns
Unlike Mumbai Airport, where city traffic can add 30-90 minutes of unpredictability, Navi Mumbai Airport timing is much more consistent. Here's what to expect:
Best Time Slots
- 5:00 AM - 7:00 AM: Fastest, empty roads, 2 hours flat
- 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM: Consistent, light traffic, 2-2.25 hours
- 10:00 PM - 5:00 AM: Night travel, excellent for late flights
Times to Avoid
- 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Pune morning rush, add 15-20 min
- Sunday 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Return traffic from weekend, add 20-30 min
- Monsoon (June-Sept): Reduce speed in ghats, add 15-25 min
How Much Time to Allow Before Flight?
Example: For 8:00 AM domestic flight, leave Pune by 4:30 AM. For 10:00 AM international flight, leave by 5:30 AM.
Complete Cost Breakdown
Cab Options & Pricing
GreenEVCabs - Electric Vehicles
Modern EVs with experienced drivers
Rs.2,400
All-inclusive
What's Included
- • All tolls (Rs.245)
- • Driver allowance
- • Taxes & GST
- • Waiting time (1 hour)
Vehicle Options
- • BYD E-MAX 7: Rs.2,800
- • Kia Carens EV: Rs.2,700
- • Premium sedans: Rs.2,400
Benefits
- • Zero emissions
- • Quieter ride
- • Fixed pricing
- • 24/7 service
Other Cab Options
| Service | Sedan | SUV | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ola/Uber | Rs.2,200-2,800 | Rs.2,800-3,400 | Surge pricing varies |
| Local Cab Services | Rs.2,000-2,600 | Rs.2,600-3,200 | Negotiate tolls |
| Diesel/Petrol Cabs | Rs.2,300-2,900 | Rs.2,900-3,500 | Higher fuel costs |
Cost Comparison: NMI vs Mumbai Airport
| Component | To NMI | To Mumbai Airport | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Fare | Rs.2,200 | Rs.2,700 | Rs.500 |
| Tolls | Rs.245 | Rs.360 | Rs.115 |
| Time Saved | - | 30-45 min | Priceless |
| Total | Rs.2,445 | Rs.3,060 | Rs.615 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Navi Mumbai Airport from Pune?
Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMI) is approximately 110 km from Pune city center. The journey takes 2-2.5 hours via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, exiting at Khalapur toll plaza.
What is the best way to reach Navi Mumbai Airport from Pune?
The best way is to hire a cab or taxi. Take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway to Khalapur (Km 68), then follow Panvel-Uran Road to the airport. Total journey takes 2-2.5 hours with minimal city traffic.
How much does a cab cost from Pune to Navi Mumbai Airport?
Electric cab services charge Rs.2,200-2,600 for sedans and Rs.2,800-3,200 for SUVs/7-seaters, including tolls and driver charges. This is significantly cheaper than Mumbai Airport transfers.
Is Navi Mumbai Airport closer than Mumbai Airport from Pune?
Yes, Navi Mumbai Airport is 20 km closer and 30-45 minutes faster than Mumbai Airport. It involves less city traffic and is more predictable for timing, making it ideal for Pune travelers.
When is Navi Mumbai Airport opening?
Navi Mumbai International Airport is scheduled to open in 2025. The airport will have modern facilities including dedicated drop-off zones, ample parking, and clear signage from the expressway.
Can I take public transport from Pune to Navi Mumbai Airport?
Currently, direct public transport options are limited. The most practical options are: (1) Hire a private cab (most convenient), (2) Take a bus to Panvel then local taxi to airport (time-consuming), or (3) Wait for potential direct bus services post-airport opening.
What time should I leave Pune for my flight?
For domestic flights: Leave 3-3.5 hours before departure (2.5 hours journey + 30-60 min buffer). For international flights: Leave 4-4.5 hours before departure. Example: For 8:00 AM flight, leave Pune by 4:30 AM.
Are there food stops on the way?
Yes, the Mumbai-Pune Expressway has excellent food stops: McDonald's at Lonavala (Km 40) and Khopoli (Km 55), Khalapur Food Plaza (Km 68), and multiple options near Panvel. However, for airport transfers, it's best to plan a quick 10-15 minute stop maximum.
Book Your Navi Mumbai Airport Transfer
Stress-free, on-time airport drops with modern electric vehicles. Fixed pricing, professional drivers, 24/7 service.
Premium EVs
BYD E-MAX 7, Kia Carens EV
On-Time Guarantee
Never miss a flight
Best Prices
Rs.2,400 all-inclusive
24/7 service • Navi Mumbai Airport ₹2,400 • Mumbai Airport ₹2,700