Passenger Traffic Declines at Vizag Airport, Rebound Anticipated

Passenger traffic at Visakhapatnam Airport has experienced a notable decline this year, with the total number of passengers dropping significantly compared to previous figures. As of October in the financial year 2025–2026, the airport has recorded only 1,709,912 passengers. This figure is down from 2,788,914 passengers in 2023–2024 and 2,954,979 in the following year, 2024–2025. Despite the downturn, airport officials are optimistic about a resurgence in passenger numbers, particularly as the peak travel season approaches.

Authorities anticipate that the final passenger count for the current financial year will exceed last year’s total. This expectation is largely attributed to the typical seasonal increase in travel activity witnessed between October and January. Currently, international flights to Abu Dhabi and Singapore are operating at nearly 90 percent occupancy, indicating a robust demand for these routes.

The dynamics of connectivity, however, have changed due to the recent cancellation of flights to Sri Lanka and the discontinuation of services to Malaysia and Thailand. This reduction in international options may impact overall traffic. Nevertheless, aviation experts suggest that the ongoing industrial growth in Visakhapatnam could stimulate a revival in international travel demand in the near future.

Domestic Flights Show Steady Growth

On the domestic front, operations at Visakhapatnam Airport have demonstrated consistent improvement. In the financial year 2023–2024, the airport recorded 9,827 arrivals and 9,826 departures. This increased to 10,686 arrivals and 10,687 departures in 2024–2025. For the current financial year, up to October, there have been 6,178 arrivals and 6,181 departures.

International traffic, on the other hand, has seen more fluctuations. In 2023–2024, the airport logged 233 arrivals and 234 departures, which increased to 476 arrivals and 475 departures in the following year. For the current year, 237 arrivals and 234 departures have been recorded up to October.

While the mid-year passenger figures reflect a downturn, both airport authorities and industry analysts remain hopeful for a rebound in traffic over the coming months. Seasonal travel trends, alongside the expanding industrial landscape in Visakhapatnam, are expected to contribute positively to the airport’s performance, potentially concluding the financial year on a stronger note.