KIA surpasses 41 million passengers and 500,000 MT of cargo in FY ‘25

The Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru crossed the 41 million passenger mark and also surpassed 500,000 metric tonnes (MT) of cargo for the financial year 2024-25 (FY ‘25).

Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), operator of KIA, said that the airport welcomed 41.88 million passengers, as compared to 37.53 million in the last financial year, reflecting a growth of 11.6%.

“Domestic passenger traffic witnessed 10% growth, reaching 36.05 million, while international passenger numbers surged to 5.83 million, reflecting a 25% increase on the previous financial year. This substantial increase in international passenger numbers is largely driven by Indigo’s expansion of its global network, additional daily frequencies to London Heathrow, along with increased services from several foreign carriers including Cathay Pacific, KLM, Japan Airlines and Qantas,” BIAL said.

Third busiest

It added that KIA has consistently been ranked as India’s third busiest airport for international passengers for the last four months.

“It now offers non-stop connectivity to 76 domestic and 33 international destinations, with Hanoi set to become the 34th international destination starting early May 2025,” BIAL said.

On the cargo front, KIA achieved a significant milestone by surpassing the 500,000 metric tonnes (MT) mark for the first time, handling a total of 502,480 MT of cargo in the financial year 2024-25 (FY’25).

This achievement marks a notable 14% year-on-year growth, reinforcing the Airport’s position as a key logistics hub for both India and global trade.

Cargo growth was driven by a 21% rise in international cargo, totalling 321,418 MT, while domestic cargo grew 4%, reaching 181,062 MT.

BIAL said that for the fourth consecutive year, KIA retained its position as India’s number one airport for perishable exports, reinforcing its role in strengthening the country’s agricultural supply chain.

Mango and coriander export

“The Airport continues to lead in mango and coriander exports, with cargo demand further driven by ready-made garments, pharmaceuticals, and machinery parts. With 12 dedicated freighter airlines, the airport ensures efficient global connectivity, linking major export hubs like Singapore, London, Frankfurt, Chicago, and Muscat, while key imports flow in from Shenzhen, Singapore, Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Frankfurt,” BIAL said.