Has Delhi Airport Joined the Global 100-Million-Plus Club with 109 Million Passenger Capacity?
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Synopsis
Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport has achieved a significant milestone by joining the 100-million-plus club, becoming a key player in the global aviation landscape. This remarkable feat reflects the rapid growth of India's aviation sector, driven by strategic initiatives and infrastructure development.
Key Takeaways
- Delhi Airport has a passenger capacity of 109 million.
- Only six airports worldwide are part of the 100-million-plus club.
- Plans are in place to modernize Terminal 2.
- India now operates 162 airports, a significant increase over the last decade.
- The RCS-UDAN scheme has operationalized 637 routes.
New Delhi, Aug 18 (NationPress) Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) has officially entered the prestigious 100-million-plus club of international airports, boasting an impressive annual passenger-handling capacity of 109 million.
As per data released by the Official Airline Guide and airport authorities, this exclusive group comprises only six airports globally.
The landmark achievement occurred in May 2023 following the full operationalization of Terminal 1, with the airport closing 2024 with enhanced capacity. Besides Tokyo Haneda, it stands as the sole airport in Asia within this elite category, managed by Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL).
To further augment the airport's total capacity, plans are underway to revamp and modernize Terminal 2.
A recent official report highlights that the Indian aviation sector has experienced a remarkable transformation over the past decade, driven by effective national initiatives such as PM GatiShakti, the National Logistics Policy, Bharatmala, Sagarmala, and UDAN.
India now operates 162 airports, including heliports and water aerodromes, a significant increase from 74 in 2014, according to the report.
Data presented to Parliament indicates that Indian airports managed 412 million passengers in 2024–2025, comprising 77 million foreign and 335 million domestic travelers, marking a 9 percent increase compared to the previous year.
The Regional Connectivity Scheme-Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik (RCS-UDAN), introduced in 2016, aims to enhance regional air connectivity and make air travel more affordable for the general public.
Since its launch, the program has operationalized 637 RCS routes — including 15 heliports and two water aerodromes — connecting 92 underserved and unserved airports. These budget flights have transported over 1.51 crore passengers.
During the Northern Region Ministers' Conference last month, Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu announced that the nation has inaugurated 88 new airports in just ten years, averaging nearly one new airport every 40 days, along with an additional 60 flights every hour.
The minister asserted that air travel has become more accessible and economically viable in India.
Naidu reiterated the ministry's dedication to inclusive aviation growth through cooperative, state-specific strategies, emphasizing that Indian skies are becoming increasingly connected, competitive, and collaborative under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Point of View
I recognize the importance of this milestone for Delhi Airport, showcasing India's expanding aviation capabilities. It reflects a broader trend of growth and modernization in the airline industry, enhancing connectivity and accessibility for millions of passengers. This achievement underscores the government's commitment to fostering an efficient and competitive air travel environment in the country.
NationPress
05/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean for Delhi Airport to join the 100-million-plus club?
Joining the 100-million-plus club signifies that Delhi Airport has reached an impressive annual capacity of 109 million passengers, placing it among the world's elite airports and highlighting the growth of the Indian aviation industry.
How has the Indian aviation sector changed recently?
The Indian aviation sector has undergone significant transformation over the past decade due to national initiatives aimed at enhancing connectivity and infrastructure, resulting in a rise from 74 to 162 operational airports.
What impact does the RCS-UDAN scheme have?
The RCS-UDAN scheme aims to improve regional air connectivity, making air travel more affordable for the general public, and has operationalized numerous routes to underserved regions.
How many new airports have been built in India recently?
India has opened 88 new airports in the past decade, averaging nearly one new airport every 40 days, significantly enhancing the nation's aviation infrastructure.
What initiatives are driving the growth of Indian aviation?
Key initiatives like PM GatiShakti, the National Logistics Policy, and others are fueling growth in the Indian aviation sector, promoting efficiency and connectivity.
