Archive · 2 Jan 2026
Telecom Firms Accuse Adani Airport of Blocking Network Access
Telecom companies like Airtel, Jio, and Vodafone Idea are upset because the new Navi Mumbai International Airport, run by the Adani Group, is not letting them set up their own mobile networks inside the airport.
Instead, the airport wants them to use its own network at very high prices.
The telecom companies say this is unfair and stops competition.
They wrote a letter to the government asking for help.
The airport says it is managing a sensitive area and that it's better for them to handle the network to ensure good service.
The telecom companies think the airport is being a monopoly and charging too much.
Telecom operators allege Navi Mumbai International Airport Limited is blocking Right of Way permissions for their networks.
The airport operator is demanding Rs 92 lakh per month per operator, totaling Rs 44.16 crore annually for four operators.
Telecom operators claim the charges are extortionary and undermine competition and consumer choice.
The airport operator argues it is managing a sensitive zone and an independent IBS network ensures uninterrupted connectivity.
The Cellular Operators Association of India has sought government intervention, citing legal obligations for non-discriminatory access.
- Who
- Telecom operators (Bharti Airtel, Reliance Jio, Vodafone Idea) and Navi Mumbai International Airport Limited (Adani Group)
- What
- Dispute over Right of Way permissions for telecom infrastructure at Navi Mumbai International Airport
- When
- Allegations made in a letter dated December 31, 2025
- Where
- Navi Mumbai International Airport, India
- Why
- Telecom operators allege monopolistic practices and extortionary charges; airport claims it is managing a sensitive zone
- Airport Operator
- Navi Mumbai International Airport Limited (Adani Airport Holding Limited)
- Telecom Operators Involved
- Bharti Airtel, Reliance Jio, Vodafone Idea
- Charges Demanded
- Rs 92 lakh per month per operator
- Annual Cost for Four Operators
- Rs 44.16 crore
- Legal Basis Cited
- 2023 Telecommunications Act and 2024 Telecommunications Right of Way Rules
- Airport Status
- Public entity
- Network Type
- In-building solution (IBS) network