World's Nineth-Busiest Airport Located in Delhi
Capital City Triumphs: Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) in New Delhi has emerged victorious, securing the 9th spot as the world's busiest airport in terms of passenger traffic in 2024. The airport welcomed a staggering 7.7 crore passengers last year.
Delhi stands tall as the sole representative of India in the ACI's elite top 10 global ranking, having ascended steadily from 17th in 2019, to 13th in 2021, 10th in 2023, and now claiming the 9th position in 2024.
Operation Sindhu Rescues Record Number of NationalsAccording to ACI World's report, the world's airports globally catered to nearly 9.5 billion passengers in 2024, marking a 9% increase from 2023 and a 3.8% hike from pre-pandemic levels in 2019. The top 10 busiest airports pooled together a colossal 855 million passengers, accounting for a massive 9% of global traffic. Earlier this year, IGIA also received the prestigious Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Award for Best Airport in Asia-Pacific for the seventh consecutive year.
India's First Space Tourist Soars HighGMR-led Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), the operators of IGIA, attribute their growth to critical infrastructure overhauls, including expanded terminal capacity, runway enhancements, and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies such as facial recognition and automated baggage handling systems. The airport now boasts direct connectivity to more than 150 destinations worldwide.
Videh Kumar Jaipuriar, CEO of DIAL, stated, "This recognition by ACI World underscores our relentless pursuit of service excellence. Our commitment to upholding service excellence, promoting sustainability, leveraging technology, and enhancing infrastructure, positions Delhi Airport as a gateway to India and a world-class aviation hub."
This sustained growth, elevating IGIA's position in the global aviation scene, is rooted in a harmonious blend of strategic, infrastructural, economic, and operational advancements.
Strategic Victories- Geographic advantage: Delhi's strategic location between major aviation markets serves as a critical transit point for international travel, facilitating increased traffic.- Global Connectivity: IGIA serves as a hub for global travelers, particularly those traversing Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Economic and Market Influences- Domestic Market Boom: India's rapidly expanding domestic aviation market has significantly contributed to overall passenger traffic.- International Revival: The recovery post-pandemic and enhanced international travel have boosted passenger numbers.- Government Support and Strategic Alliances: Proactive government policies, airline partnerships, and the extension of bilateral air service agreements have fostered increased international flights and connectivity.
Infrastructure and Operational Mastery- Modern Terminal and Facility Upgrades: Massive investments have been made in modernizing terminals, security systems, and baggage handling processes.- Technological Wonders: The introduction of smart security processes, automated baggage handling systems, and facial recognition technologies have augmented efficiency and passenger satisfaction.- Capacity Expansion: Planned infrastructure projects, including the addition of new terminals, are designed to cater to anticipated passenger growth in the coming decade.
Elevated Reputation- Global Hub Status: IGIA's inclusion in ACI's top 10 hub airports for Asia-Pacific and the Middle East validates its growing status as a major international transit hub.- Increased International Confidence: The airport's rising connectivity and service standards have amplified confidence among international airlines and passengers, bolstering its position in the global aviation market.
- A travel enthusiast visiting India might be intrigued to explore the vibrant lifestyle offered in Delhi, given that the city's Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) stands among the world's top 10 busiest airports, making it a global aviation hub.
- As sports fans enjoy their favorite matches worldwide, they can now easily access these events, thanks to Delhi Airport's direct connectivity to over 150 destinations, thereby enriching their sports travel experiences.
