Bengaluru, January 12, 2023: Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR Airport) has reported substantial growth in passenger numbers during the calendar year 2023, serving a total of 37.2 million passengers.
This marks a remarkable 35.3% increase compared to the previous year, highlighting the airport’s resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges.
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Passenger Milestone: A Notable Rebound
BLR Airport experienced a significant rebound in passenger numbers, with 32.7 million domestic passengers and 4.5 million international travelers in 2023. The highest single-day passenger count, recorded on April 29, 2023, reached 116,688 passengers, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and showcasing the airport’s robustness.
Factors such as reduced travel restrictions, improved economic conditions, and increased demand for both leisure and business travel contributed to this notable growth. March 17, 2023, saw the highest number of air traffic movements (ATMs) in a single day, reaching 748, indicating a positive trend toward pre-pandemic travel patterns.
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Connectivity and New Routes: Expanding Horizons
September 2023 marked a crucial milestone as BLR Airport smoothly transitioned international operations from T1 to T2. The launch of Lufthansa’s Bengaluru-Munich flights in November and the introduction of Maldivian Airlines in October enhanced international connectivity. Five new domestic routes, including those of AIX, contributed to overall capacity growth.
BLR Airport served 25 international destinations in 2023, with Dubai, Singapore, and Doha emerging as top contributors to international traffic. The focus on global connectivity positions the airport as a key gateway for travel across South and Central India.
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Cargo Growth: BLR Cargo Takes the Lead
BLR Cargo maintained its position as India’s No.1 hub for perishable cargo for the third consecutive year, handling 422,644 MT of cargo in CY 2023. Notably, the domestic sector witnessed an impressive 11% growth, solidifying BLR’s status as a rapidly growing cargo hub in India.
Key achievements in perishable exports include a 67% surge in coriander exports and a three-year record for mango exports, which saw a 124% year-on-year growth. BLR Cargo’s dedication to efficient perishable handling is underscored by these accomplishments.
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Strategic Infrastructure Developments: Aiming for the Future
BLR Cargo’s strategic infrastructure developments in May 2023 welcomed two new cargo terminal operators, Menzies Aviation Bangalore Pvt Ltd (MABPL) and WFS Bangalore Pvt Ltd (WFSBPL). These partnerships are expected to enhance efficiency, expand capacity, and sustain cargo growth, with the goal of reaching approximately ~1 million MT by the end of the decade.
July 2023 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, further diversifying and strengthening BLR Cargo’s global connectivity.
Looking Ahead: Commitment to Growth and Excellence
As 2023 is reflected upon as a year of resilience and milestone achievements, Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru is committed to maintaining its position as one of the leading aviation hubs and the preferred gateway to South and Central India. The focus remains on continuous growth and excellence in the years to come.
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