In a significant step towards its operational debut, the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) has successfully concluded an exhaustive year-long Operational Readiness and Airport Transfer (ORAT) programme. The airport operator announced on Saturday that this critical phase, involving near twice-weekly live trials, paves the way for the commencement of commercial operations on December 25.
What is the ORAT Programme and How Was It Conducted?
The ORAT is a structured, comprehensive process designed to make a new airport "ready to operate." It rigorously tests everything from physical infrastructure and technology to staff preparedness and operational procedures under conditions that mimic real-world scenarios. For NMIA, this meant conducting a series of full-scale dress rehearsals over the past year.
During these live trials, the airport used staff and volunteers as mock passengers to simulate the entire travel experience. Equipped with mock boarding passes and baggage, these "trial passengers"—whose numbers ranged from about 50 to over 1,000 during peak simulations—tested every touchpoint. Teams meticulously evaluated check-in counters, security screening lanes, boarding gates, baggage handling systems, and emergency response protocols.
Simulating Real-World Challenges to Identify Gaps
The simulations were intentionally designed to include everyday travel hiccups. Organizers introduced scenarios involving misplaced documents, passengers requiring special assistance, oversized baggage, flight delays, and security checkpoint congestion. The objective was to stress-test systems and human coordination.
Each simulated challenge helped identify potential gaps, refine processes, and strengthen coordination between different agencies. The operator confirmed that every issue spotted during these drills was formally logged and tracked through a structured resolution mechanism. At one stage, more than 1,300 open issues were identified, all of which were subsequently addressed and closed.
What This Means for Passengers on Opening Day
By the time NMIA opens its doors to the public on Christmas Day, the ORAT programme will have ensured several key outcomes. The terminal building, runway, and all core operational systems will be fully tested and functional. Staff across airlines, security forces, air traffic control, and ground services will be trained, aligned, and confident in their roles.
Most importantly for travellers, the passenger-facing journey—from check-in and security to boarding and baggage delivery—will be proven to work reliably under live conditions. The extensive trials aim to minimize operational risks and unexpected surprises, even during periods of peak passenger movement, promising a smooth start for India's newest aviation gateway.
