At 37.20 million, Bengaluru airport passenger traffic rises by 35.3% in 2023

Bengaluru airport terminal 2

In an indication of a rebound in passenger traffic, Bengaluru airport welcomed a total of 37.2 million passengers in 2023, marking a 35.3 percent increase compared to 2022.

Of these, 32.7 million were domestic passengers, and 4.5 million traveled to international destinations.

"This figure exceeded pre-pandemic levels and highlights the airport's resilience and adaptability," said a statement from Bengaluru International Airport Limited, which operates the Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru.

On April 29, 2023, the airport recorded the highest number of passengers in a single day in 2023 at 116,688 passengers.

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"In 2023, factors such as reduced travel limitations, improved economic conditions, and increased demand for leisure and business travel led to a notable rise in growth numbers," it said.

According to BIAL, the highest number of air traffic movements (ATMs) was witnessed on March 17, 2023, with 748 ATMs in a single day.

"It is a notable recovery, considering that the highest ATMs on any single day in 2022 was 693. Domestic ATMs last year saw a substantial 22 percent recovery, while international ATMs showed a 15 percent increase. These indicators reflect the positive momentum in the aviation sector, demonstrating the gradual return to pre-pandemic level travel patterns," it said.

Connectivity

According to BIAL, the top domestic routes in 2023 included Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad. "Bengaluru airport served 25 international destinations last year, with Dubai, Singapore, and Doha emerging as the top sectors contributing to international traffic. The airport's strategic focus on global connectivity continues to position it as a key gateway for travel across South and Central India," it said.

Cargo growth

"In terms of cargo traffic, BLR Cargo continues to be India's no.1 hub for handling perishable cargo for the third consecutive year with a tonnage of 53,751 metric tonnes (MT) in FY 2023." said a statement.

"BLR Cargo processed a total of 422,644 MT of cargo during CY 2023, indicating a 2 percent increase from the previous year. The domestic sector soared with an impressive 11 percent growth, highlighting Bengaluru’s strengthening position as a rapidly growing cargo hub in India," it said.

"Perishables continued to be a key focus, with coriander exports surging by 67 percent. The export of mangoes reached a three-year tonnage record, achieving a 124 percent year-on-year growth. 684 MT of mangoes were exported, facilitated by an 86 percent increase in the number of pieces shipped. This accomplishment highlights BLR Cargo’s robust cold chain capabilities and dedication to efficient perishable handling," it said.

In May 2023, two new Cargo terminal operators, Menzies Aviation Bangalore Pvt Ltd (MABPL) and WFS Bangalore Pvt Ltd (WFSBPL), were introduced.

"The developments aim to elevate BLR Cargo's cargo capacities to approximately 1 million MT by the end of this decade. July 2023 also marked a significant milestone for BLR Cargo, handling the highest monthly domestic tonnage since the airport's opening, totaling 16,507 MT. Additionally, Oman Airlines commenced freighter operations last year, further diversifying and strengthening BLR Cargo's global connectivity.

"Bengaluru aims to maintain its position as one of the leading aviation hubs and the preferred gateway to South and Central India, with a commitment to continuous growth and excellence," it adds.

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