Thursday, 10 Oct, 2024
By: Damini Mehta
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
According to aviation analytics firm Network Thoughts, domestic air traffic in 2023 is estimated at an all-time high of 15.2 crore passengers, up from 14.4 crore passengers in 2019.
In a remarkable turn of events, the year 2023 witnessed an unprecedented surge in domestic air passenger traffic throughout India. This surge set new records, signaling a robust revival of the country's aviation sector. A combination of factors, including economic rebound, increased vaccination rates, and the relaxation of travel restrictions, contributed to this extraordinary growth. December 2023, in particular, emerged as a standout month, boasting the highest number of domestic air travelers in a single month in India’s aviation history.
According to aviation analytics firm Network Thoughts, domestic air traffic in 2023 is estimated at an all-time high of 15.2 crore passengers, up from 14.4 crore passengers in 2019. This surge was fueled by a confluence of factors, such as the rejuvenation of economic activities, heightened consumer confidence, and a pent-up demand for travel following prolonged pandemic-induced restrictions. The revival in domestic passenger air traffic belies International Air Transport Association (IATA)’s estimation of domestic air traffic reaching pre-Covid levels by 2024.
Moreover, December 2023 is a pivotal month in this record-breaking trajectory. The month not only contributed significantly to the annual surge but also set a new benchmark for the highest number of passengers flying within the country during a single month. While the official data for passenger traffic in the month of December 2023 is yet to be out, except for the month of November domestic air passenger traffic in all months of 2023 was higher than the corresponding months of 2019. According to provisional figures, from 14.42 crore passengers in 2019, the number jumped to around 15.2 crore in 2023.
The gradual recovery of the Indian economy is said to have played a pivotal role in the surge of domestic air travel. As economic activities regained momentum, more individuals felt inclined to invest in travel experiences, thus contributing to the surge in passenger numbers. Easing of travel restrictions by the government has facilitated the further growth in domestic air traffic. As states and cities progressively opened up, more people capitalized on the opportunity to explore various destinations within the country.
December 2023 emerged as a standout period in the year, boasting historic highs in domestic air travel. The festive season, marked by celebrations like Diwali and Christmas, traditionally sees an uptick in travel. December being a peak holiday season globally, many individuals and families chose to cap off the year with vacations. This resulted in a substantial increase in the number of people opting for air travel during the month. In December 1.38 crore passengers traveled by air, an estimate based on daily domestic air traffic data shared by the ministry of civil aviation. This beats the last high in May 2023 of 1.32 crore passengers.
The year 2023 will be etched in the annals of India's aviation history as a time when domestic air travel soared to unprecedented heights. The sustained growth throughout the year, coupled with the record-breaking numbers in December, underscored the resilience and vibrancy of the country's aviation sector. As India continues on its trajectory of recovery, the aviation industry remains a crucial barometer, reflecting the nation's economic vitality and resurgence.
