By Sameep Singh Gumtala, Published on February 28th, 2025 in News
Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, Amritsar, continues to break records, achieving its highest-ever monthly international passenger footfall in January 2025. The airport welcomed 113,481 international passengers, surpassing the previous record of 110,670 set in December 2024. This marks a 17.1% increase compared to 96,924 international passengers in January 2024.
Additionally, according to the recent data released by Airports Authority of India, the domestic sector also witnessed strong growth, with 210,154 domestic passengers, a 19.5% increase from 175,895 recorded in January 2024. The total passenger footfall recorded for January 2025 was 323,635 (approximately 3.23 lakh), reflecting an 18.6% rise compared to 272,819 (approximately 2.72 lakh) in January 2024. This also marks the third-highest total passenger footfall ever recorded at the airport, with the top two figures – 3.4 lakh and 3.38 lakh – achieved in December of 2024 and December 2023, respectively.
The growth can be credited to the launch of a new international route to Bangkok by Thai Lion Air and Air India Express, increased flight frequency to Milan and Birmingham, and a rising number of Punjabis opting for direct international flights to Amritsar instead of transiting through Delhi.
The increase in international traffic is also reflected in the number of aircraft movements, which surged by 20.2% from 510 in January 2024 to 613 in January 2025. Domestic aircraft movements also grew by 16.4%, reaching 1,383 movements.
The continuous rise in passenger numbers highlights the growing preference for direct international connectivity to Amritsar. With expanding flight options, the airport is solidifying its position as a key international gateway for Punjab. There is a need for urgent infrastructure upgrades, including terminal expansion, improved parking facilities, and enhanced passenger amenities, to support this rising demand.
It is disheartening that, despite the airport recording a daily footfall of more than 10,000 passengers and numerous appeals, the Punjab government has yet to introduce intercity bus services from various cities across the state to enhance airport accessibility.
About the Author: Sameep Singh Gumtala is Global Convener of the FlyAmritsar Initiative, a global advocacy group dedicated to promoting and enhancing connectivity at Amritsar Airport. The Initiative has been advocating for increased flight services to Amritsar, recognizing the city’s importance as a cultural and commercial hub.
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