Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru recorded robust passenger traffic growth in the fiscal year 2025-26, handling nearly 44.5 million flyers. This marked a 6.2% increase year-on-year, according to the airport operator Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL).
International Traffic Drives Growth
International traffic emerged as the key driver, surging by 23.9% to reach 7.2 million passengers. In contrast, domestic traffic grew by a modest 3.3% to 37.2 million. The steady rise in overall traffic occurred despite global uncertainties.
Transit Passenger Increase
Transit passengers at KIA's two terminals increased by approximately 22% compared to the previous fiscal year, contributing 15% of total traffic. While domestic transfers grew at around 3.2%, international transfers expanded by over 50%, indicating significant long-term potential.
New Routes and Expanded Services
During the last fiscal, new international destinations such as Hanoi and Riyadh were added. Key destinations including London Heathrow, Bangkok, Bahrain, Jeddah, Phuket, Kuwait, Kathmandu, Munich, and Mauritius saw increased flight frequencies, BIAL stated. The most popular international destinations were Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, London Heathrow, and Kuala Lumpur. On the domestic front, Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Pune remained the top sectors. The domestic network also expanded with the addition of Navi Mumbai, Jaisalmer, Bidar, Silchar, and Dimapur airports.
Cargo Business Performance
Cargo business recorded a 6% rise, with 5.3 lakh tonnes of goods transported. Mango exports grew by 12% to a five-year high, while coriander volumes increased by 13% year-on-year.
