Maharashtra Considers Virar for Mumbai’s Third Airport

Mumbai, Jan 2026 : The Maharashtra government is evaluating Virar as a potential site for Mumbai’s proposed third airport, alongside the existing Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport and the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport. While Palghar was earlier identified as the likely location, the state has now commissioned a comparative study to determine whether Virar or Palghar would be better suited for the project.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said expert inputs are being sought before a final decision is made. Speaking at a public rally in Nalasopara ahead of the civic elections, he noted that the study will assess both locations with a focus on long-term development prospects and connectivity.

“If the airport is developed at Virar, it can be directly linked to the proposed Vadhavan Port through the Coastal Road, easing travel. If the report favours Palghar, the government will work to improve connectivity between Vasai-Virar, the airport, and the port,” Fadnavis said.

The Chief Minister emphasised that the project, which has already received approval from the Prime Minister, is part of a broader vision to create an integrated development hub, often described as the ‘third Mumbai.’ This plan aims to transform the Palghar and Vasai-Virar region through major infrastructure initiatives, including the airport, a port, and a bullet train corridor.

Fadnavis also highlighted the potential economic and social benefits for the region, promising significant changes and urging voters to back development-focused governance in the upcoming civic polls. He took a subtle dig at the ruling Bhaujan Vikas Aghadi (BVA) in the Vasai-Virar City Municipal Corporation, suggesting that performance and progress should guide voter decisions.

The Vasai-Virar City Municipal Corporation comprises 115 elected members across 29 wards, with 58 seats reserved for women. The upcoming elections are expected to influence the pace and direction of the region’s future development initiatives, including critical infrastructure projects like the proposed airport.

By assessing both Virar and Palghar, the state aims to ensure that the third Mumbai airport not only strengthens connectivity but also supports long-term urban and economic growth in the northern Mumbai region.

This evaluation signals the government’s intent to move swiftly on the ambitious project while keeping public and expert opinion at the forefront of the planning process.