By Sameep Singh Gumtala, Published on February 15th, 2025 in News
Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar, Punjab, has reached a historic milestone, breaking multiple previous records for passenger footfall. The airport not only achieved its highest-ever monthly passenger footfall in December 2024 but also recorded unprecedented yearly traffic for the same year.
Record-Breaking Passenger Numbers
An analysis of recent data released by the Airport Authority of India (AAI) and the historical data maintained by the FlyAmritsar Initiative since 2004, reveals that the airport welcomed an astounding total of 3,40,408 (approximately 3.40 lakh) passengers in December 2024. This figure surpasses the previous record of 3,38,712 passengers set in December 2023. The December 2024 total includes 2.29 lakh domestic passengers and a record 1.11 lakh international passengers, marking only the second time international footfall has crossed the 1-lakh mark, surpassing the previous record of 1.06 lakh international passengers.
Annual Passenger Growth
Another significant milestone was achieved in calendar year 2024, which became the busiest year in the airport’s history. Total passenger traffic reaching 34,25,657 (approximately 34.26 lakh) surpassing the previous highest of 29,44,916 (approximately 29.4 lakh) passengers recorded in 2023. The 2024 total includes 23.12 lakh domestic and 11.14 lakh international passengers, marking the first time international traffic has crossed 10 lakhs in a calendar year. This represents an impressive 16.3% growth compared to 2023, with international passenger numbers surging by 21.3% and domestic traffic rising by 14.1%.
Preferred Choice for International Travelers
The growing preference of the Punjabi community worldwide to fly directly to Amritsar has significantly contributed to this rise. Currently, passengers travel from 10 global destinations, including London, Birmingham, Doha, Dubai, Sharjah, Milan, Rome, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. Many travelers are choosing to bypass Delhi or long road journeys to Punjab in favor of direct flights to Amritsar. Additionally, a significant portion of the domestic traffic comprises international passengers connecting via Delhi or Mumbai.
Need for Infrastructure Expansion
With rising passenger volumes, there is an urgent need for infrastructure upgrades. The airport has been witnessing an annual increase of approximately 5 lakh passengers, and projections indicate it will surpass the 40-lakh passenger mark in 2025. To accommodate this growth, immediate expansion of the current terminal capacity is necessary, along with further upgrades planned over the next five years.
Call for Enhanced Passenger Facilities
Improvements in parking facilities and other passengers’ amenities are also crucial to maintaining the airport’s efficiency and convenience. Additionally, the FlyAmritsar Initiative has been urging the Punjab government for a long time to introduce intercity bus services from various cities across Punjab to improve airport accessibility.
Future Prospects
This continuous growth highlights the airport’s immense potential as a regional hub for both international and domestic travel. Authorities are encouraged to prioritize terminal expansion and ensure the airport is well-equipped to handle future demand, further strengthening Amritsar’s position as a major aviation center.
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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