Bengaluru: Marking a major milestone in its aviation journey, Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) has surpassed the 400-million passenger mark since the start of its operations, cementing its position as one of India's most dynamic air hubs. The achievement comes on the back of a robust surge in international passenger traffic and sustained cargo growth in the financial year 2025-26.
Record Passenger and Cargo Numbers
According to Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), the airport handled 44.4 million passengers and 5.3 lakh metric tonnes of cargo during the year. International passenger traffic grew 24% to 7.2 million, while domestic traffic rose 3% to 37.2 million passengers. Overall passenger traffic increased 6% year on year.
This performance, despite geopolitical and sectoral headwinds, reflects Bengaluru's increasing global relevance as a business and innovation hub. KIA currently offers non-stop connectivity to more than 78 domestic and 34 international destinations, a statement from the chief minister's office (CMO) said. The figures were reviewed at the 134th board meeting of BIAL chaired by Karnataka chief secretary Shalini Rajneesh.
Awards and Rankings
The airport climbed from 48th to 41st place in the Skytrax World Top 100 Airports rankings. It won the 'Best Regional Airport in India and South Asia' award for the third consecutive year and 'Best Airport at Arrivals Globally' at the ACI ASQ Awards for the fourth straight year.
Cargo and Perishable Exports
Cargo operations posted steady growth, supported by exports of flowers, fruits, pharmaceuticals, and electronics. The airport retained its position as India's leading gateway for perishable exports for the fifth consecutive year. Officials said the airport handled nearly 60 million rose stems during the year, with volumes rising 38%. Mango exports grew 12% to a five-year high, while coriander shipments increased 13%.
Operational Activity
Operational activity also touched record levels. The airport recorded 2.8 lakh air traffic movements during the year, up 5%, with average daily flight movements at 769. On its busiest day, the airport handled 1.39 lakh passengers and 837 flight movements.
Key Highlights at a Glance
- Passenger Traffic: 44.4 million passengers; domestic 37.2 million (+3%), international 7.2 million (+24%), overall growth 6%.
- Flight Movements: 2.8 lakh ATMs (+5%); average daily flights 769; peak flights 837; peak passengers 1.39 lakh.
- Connectivity: 78+ domestic and 34+ international non-stop destinations.
- Cargo: 5.3 lakh metric tonnes (+6%); 15 cargo airlines linking 38 destinations. Major cargo hubs: Chicago, Singapore, London Heathrow, Frankfurt, Shenzhen, Hong Kong.
- Perishable Exports: Roses: 60 million stems, volume +38%, tonnage +64%; mango exports +12%; coriander exports +13%.
- Awards and Rankings: Skytrax Best Regional Airport in India and South Asia (3rd year); ACI ASQ Best Airport at Arrivals Globally (4th year); Skytrax rank improved from 48 to 41.
- Accreditations: Level 5 Customer Experience, Level 3 Accessibility.
