Mangaluru: Mangaluru International Airport (MIA) has achieved a significant milestone by recording its highest-ever international passenger traffic in December since the commencement of commercial operations on October 31, 2020. The airport’s strong performance reflects a steady rise in air travel demand, particularly on international routes, and highlights its growing importance as a key aviation hub in coastal Karnataka.

During December, the airport handled a total of 79,065 international passengers, marking the highest monthly international footfall recorded so far. Overall passenger traffic for the month stood at 2,27,976, which included 1,48,911 domestic travellers. Airport officials said the figures indicate sustained growth in both domestic and international segments, driven by increased flight frequencies and high passenger load factors.

Aircraft movements show steady growth

Along with passenger traffic, aircraft movements at Mangaluru International Airport also showed healthy growth in December. The airport recorded a total of 1,521 aircraft movements during the month. Of these, 1,044 were domestic flights, while 422 were international flights. In addition, 55 general aviation movements were recorded, underscoring the airport’s expanding operational footprint.

Officials noted that the increase in aircraft movements is closely aligned with rising passenger demand and improved connectivity to major domestic cities and international destinations, especially in the Gulf region, which accounts for a significant share of international traffic from Mangaluru.

Strong performance in the third quarter

The airport’s December performance capped a strong third quarter, with consistent passenger volumes recorded in the preceding months. In October, MIA handled 2,28,009 passengers, while November saw a total of 2,26,319 passengers. These figures demonstrate stable month-on-month traffic and reinforce the airport’s recovery and growth trajectory in the post-pandemic period.

Airport authorities said the steady performance across the quarter reflects renewed confidence among travellers, increased business and leisure travel, and sustained demand from expatriates travelling to and from international destinations.

Record-breaking single-day passenger traffic

A major highlight of the airport’s recent performance was recorded on January 10, when Mangaluru International Airport handled a record 9,199 passengers in a single day. This is the highest daily passenger count since the declaration of commercial operations in October 2020.

Of the total passengers on that day, 5,970 were domestic travellers, registering an impressive load factor of 91%. International passengers numbered 3,229, with an even higher load factor of 98%, indicating near-full flights on international routes.

The previous single-day record at the airport was 8,923 passengers, recorded on November 30. The new record underscores the growing preference for Mangaluru as a convenient gateway for both domestic and international travel.

High load factors reflect demand

The high load factors reported on January 10 point to strong demand across sectors. Aviation experts note that load factors above 90% are a clear indicator of efficient capacity utilisation and sustained passenger interest. The near-capacity utilisation on international flights, in particular, highlights the importance of overseas routes for the airport’s overall growth.

Airport officials attributed the strong numbers to a combination of factors, including the festive and holiday travel season, improved flight schedules, and reliable airport operations. They also said that airlines are increasingly viewing Mangaluru as a viable market for deploying additional capacity.

Outlook for the coming months

With international passenger traffic touching a new high and domestic travel remaining robust, Mangaluru International Airport is expected to maintain its upward momentum in the coming months. Authorities are optimistic that continued demand, coupled with potential additions to flight schedules, will further enhance connectivity and passenger experience.

The airport’s latest performance not only reflects growing air travel demand in the region but also reinforces its role as a critical infrastructure asset supporting tourism, business, and the large expatriate population connected to coastal Karnataka.