A total of 64.5 million (mn) passengers travelled on international routes via scheduled Indian and foreign operators during January-November 2024, reflecting an 11.4 per cent increase compared to 58 mn passengers in the same period of 2023, according to the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

Of these, Indian carriers transported 29.8 mn passengers, while foreign airlines carried 34.7 mn.

On the domestic front, Indian airlines operated 1.02 mn flights during this period, carrying 146.4 mn passengers, up from 138.2 mn passengers on 0.97 mn flights in 2023, according to DGCA data. Domestic passenger numbers grew by 5.9 per cent, with a record 500,000 passengers travelling in a single day on 17 November 2024.

The government has been actively modernising the aviation sector under the Bharatiya Vayuyan Adhiniyam 2024, effective from 1 January. This legislation replaces the Aircraft Act, 1934, to align with international standards, boost local manufacturing under 'Make in India,' and streamline licensing processes.

Significant infrastructure developments in 2024 included new terminals in Varanasi, Agra, Darbhanga, and Bagdogra, alongside new airports in Sarsawa, Rewa, and Ambikapur. The government has also approved 21 Greenfield airports to enhance regional connectivity.

Efforts to promote sustainability have seen 80 airports transition to 100 per cent green energy, with 12 achieving this milestone in 2024. Additionally, an advisory aims to increase women’s representation in aviation roles to 25 per cent by 2025.

Union Minister of Civil Aviation, Ram Mohan Naidu, highlighted ongoing initiatives to adopt renewable energy and reduce the carbon footprint across the aviation sector.