Bengaluru: Marking a significant milestone in its aviation journey, Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) has surpassed the 400-million passenger mark since commencing operations in April, reinforcing its status as one of India's most dynamic air hubs. This achievement is driven by a robust surge in international passenger traffic and sustained cargo growth during the fiscal year 2025-26.
According to Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), the airport handled 44.4 million passengers and 5.3 lakh tonnes of cargo in the fiscal year. International passenger traffic grew by 24% to reach 7.2 million, while domestic traffic increased by 3% to 37.2 million passengers. Overall passenger traffic rose by 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,” stated a release from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO). The figures were reviewed at the 134th board meeting of BIAL, chaired by Karnataka Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh.
The airport also improved its ranking 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 the ‘Best Airport at Arrivals Globally’ at the ACI ASQ Awards for the fourth straight year.
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 noted that the airport handled nearly 60 million rose stems during the year, with volumes rising by 38%. Mango exports grew by 12% to a five-year high, while coriander shipments increased by 13%.
Operational activity also reached record levels. The airport recorded 2.8 lakh air traffic movements during the year, up by 5%, with average daily flight movements at 769. On its busiest day, the airport handled 1.4 lakh passengers and 837 flight movements.
