Nagpur: Air passenger traffic to and from Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur has seen a significant decline in the first half of 2024. The total number of passengers has dropped by approximately 187,309 compared to the same period in 2023. Rising airfares and other factors are being cited as the primary reasons for this downturn.
Monthly Air Passenger Traffic Comparison (2023 vs. 2024)
Today’s Rate
Sat 12 Oct. 2024
The data shows a clear decline in passenger traffic each month, culminating in a total drop from 1,525,528 passengers in the first half of 2023 to 1,338,219 in the same period of 2024.
Factors Contributing to the Decline
According to Nagpur local travel agents, the primary reason for this decline is the significant increase in airfares. Agents highlighted that airfares have doubled on most routes compared to pre-COVID levels. They noted that after two years of restricted travel during the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a surge in travel in 2023 as people rushed to meet relatives and go on holidays. This pent-up demand has now reached its peak, leading to a saturation in travel demand in 2024.
They added that increased taxation on tours, tickets, and rising hotel accommodation costs have further increased the overall cost of travel. Additionally, the collapse of Go Air has created a monopoly-like situation in the aviation industry, contributing to higher airfares and a consequent reduction in passenger traffic.
The aviation industry, which witnessed phenomenal growth in 2023, is now facing a steep downturn. As airfares continue to rise and travel costs increase, the decline in passenger traffic at Nagpur’s airport highlights the challenges facing the sector in maintaining its growth momentum.
