Srinagar Airport Traffic Doubles In A Decade, Sets New Record
Passenger footfall rises from 2.04 million to 4.47 million in 10 years despite post-Pahalgam dip
Cargo movement jumps to 10,500 MT; Rs 1,667-cr expansion project to transform airport into global-standard hub
Srinagar: Sheikh-ul-Alam International Airport Srinagar has recorded a massive surge in passenger traffic over the past decade, with annual footfall more than doubling from 2.04 million passengers in 2014-15 to a record 4.47 million in 2024-25, reflecting rapid growth in air connectivity, tourism and economic activity across Jammu and Kashmir.
Figures shared by the Srinagar Airport Authority reveal that the airport has witnessed remarkable expansion in flight operations and passenger movement over the years, emerging as one of the busiest airports in northern India.
Officials said the steady rise in passenger traffic has significantly strengthened regional connectivity while boosting tourism, trade and overall economic development in the Union Territory.
However, the airport witnessed a decline in passenger footfall to 3.38 million in 2025-26 following the April 2025 terror attack in Pahalgam’s Baisaran Valley in which 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed. Officials said the incident adversely impacted tourist arrivals and overall travel sentiment towards Kashmir.
Despite the setback, airport authorities said the long-term growth trend remains strong, supported by rising tourism demand and improved infrastructure.
The airport has also recorded a significant increase in air cargo handling over the past five years. According to officials, cargo operations rose from 7,000 metric tonnes to 10,500 metric tonnes, facilitating faster transportation of perishable goods, horticulture produce, handicrafts and industrial commodities.
“Although the present annual cargo handling capacity at Srinagar airport is around 40,000 metric tonnes, there is further potential for expansion in cargo operations,” officials said.
Meanwhile, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) will celebrate “Yatri Suvidha Diwas” at Srinagar International Airport on Monday to showcase recent developments and passenger-centric initiatives aimed at improving travel experience.
Officials said Srinagar airport, being the primary gateway to Kashmir, plays a crucial role in tourism promotion and regional economic growth by providing seamless connectivity to major domestic destinations.
The Union Government has already sanctioned Rs 1,667 crore for the expansion of Srinagar airport. Under the ambitious project, the terminal capacity will increase from 2.5 million passengers per annum (MPPA) to 10 MPPA, while the terminal area will expand from 20,000 square metres to 71,000 square metres.
The upgraded airport will also feature multi-level parking facilities for around 1,000 vehicles and infrastructure capable of handling 15 aircraft simultaneously. Officials said the project is expected to be completed within four years.
In collaboration with the UT administration and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), plans are also underway for a new airport link road from the Srinagar Ring Road to ease passenger access and reduce congestion.
Airport authorities said several passenger-friendly facilities have already been introduced, including Digi Yatra, self-baggage drop systems, free Wi-Fi, EV charging stations, e-carts, Flybrary, laptop workstations, additional charging points, smoking lounges, children’s play zones and expanded shopping and dining options featuring both regional and international brands.
As part of the “Yatri Suvidha Diwas” celebrations, the airport will host a series of activities including cultural programmes, cleanliness and plantation drives, health and blood donation camps, seminars on aviation, recognition of women workforce and housekeeping staff, painting competitions, school visits, selfie booths and interactive passenger engagement programmes.
Officials said the initiative reaffirms the airport administration’s commitment to the philosophy of “Passenger First” and its continued focus on providing safe, seamless and comfortable travel experience to passengers.
