Kannur International Airport’s Half-Yearly Report Highlights Surge in Traffic and Revenue

Kannur International Airport (KIAL) has witnessed a remarkable surge in both passenger and cargo traffic during the first half of the current financial year (FY24-25). The airport handled a total of 6.65 lakh passengers and 5.56 thousand aircraft movements, reflecting a significant increase compared to previous years.

Dubai, Sharjah, Mumbai, Doha, and Bengaluru emerged as the busiest routes, with load factors exceeding 85%. International passenger traffic experienced a substantial boost, registering a 23% jump compared to FY22-23 and a 29% increase compared to the previous financial year. The total passenger traffic at KIAL saw a 16% rise compared to the previous financial year and an 11% increase compared to FY22-23.

The airport handled 2381 tonnes of cargo till September, with Air India Express being the major cargo carrier. Exports to Sharjah, Doha, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai accounted for a significant portion of the cargo volume, which increased by 9% compared to FY22-23 and by 23% compared to FY23-24.

The increased traffic has positively impacted the airport's financials, resulting in an initial evaluation of a 91% increase in revenue compared to the previous financial year (up to September). This growth was driven by a 107% increase in aero revenue, a 40% increase in non-aero revenue, and a 57% increase in cargo revenue.

These figures underscore KIAL's growing prominence as a significant aviation hub in the region, contributing to the economic development of Kannur and the surrounding areas.