Bengaluru International Airport Reports Impressive 35.3% Surge in Passenger Footfall During 2023

Factors such as eased travel restrictions and economic recovery contribute to remarkable growth


Kempegowda International Airport, popularly known as Bengaluru International Airport, has witnessed a substantial upswing in passenger footfall, marking a remarkable 35.3% increase in 2023 compared to the previous year, according to official statements released by the airport authorities on January 12.


The total passenger count for the year reached an impressive 37.2 million, with 32.7 million being domestic travelers and 4.5 million international passengers. The airport achieved a significant milestone on April 29, 2023, recording its highest single-day passenger traffic at 116,688.


The surge in passenger numbers can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the relaxation of travel restrictions, an improved economic outlook, and a heightened demand for both business and leisure travel, as highlighted in the airport's official statement.


Air traffic movements also experienced a boost, reaching its peak on March 17, 2023, with 748 movements - defined as the landing or take-off of an aircraft. This represented a notable recovery compared to the previous year, showcasing positive momentum in the aviation sector and a gradual return to pre-pandemic travel patterns. Domestic air traffic movements saw a substantial 22% recovery, while international movements exhibited a 15% increase.


Several noteworthy shifts and additions contributed to the airport's success in 2023. In September, the airport relocated its international operations from T1 to T2 terminal. Notable additions included Lufthansa's thrice-weekly non-stop flights from Bengaluru to Munich in November and the introduction of Maldivian Airlines, operating thrice a week to Male from October onwards. Additionally, the introduction of five new domestic routes further contributed to overall capacity growth, with AIX, a result of the merger between Air India Express and Air Asia India, commencing domestic operations from Bengaluru in October.


The top domestic routes from Bengaluru in 2023 included Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad. The airport served 25 international destinations, with Dubai, Singapore, and Doha emerging as the leading sectors contributing to international traffic.


In terms of cargo, Bengaluru airport maintained its position as India's foremost hub for handling perishable cargo for the third consecutive year, processing 53,751 metric tonnes in 2023. The total cargo processed during the year reached 422,644 metric tonnes, reflecting a 2% increase from the previous calendar year.


Blogger: Umesh Mahabalashetti

The Founder of SSMDBP Business 

Technologies Bangalore

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