New Delhi Airport Handles 78 Million Flyers, Ranked 9th Busiest Worldwide
New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport has achieved a significant milestone, ascending to the ninth position among the world’s busiest airports in 2024, according to the latest report from Airports Council International (ACI). This marks a notable improvement from its tenth-place ranking in 2023, solidifying its standing as a pivotal global aviation hub. Handling nearly 78 million passengers, the airport has surpassed major international counterparts in Los Angeles, Paris, and New York, underscoring India’s growing prominence in the global air travel sector and its commitment to robust, efficient urban connectivity.
The airport’s impressive ascent is underpinned by a substantial increase in passenger traffic. In 2024, Delhi Airport witnessed a 7.8% rise in passengers compared to the previous year, and a remarkable 13.6% increase when compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019. This growth trajectory reflects not only the resilience of the aviation industry but also the effectiveness of strategic infrastructure enhancements and passenger-centric facilities implemented at the Delhi hub. Such expansion is crucial for supporting a rapidly urbanising population and fostering economic growth, while simultaneously addressing environmental considerations for sustainable development.
Globally, 2024 has been a landmark year for air travel, with passenger traffic surpassing 9.4 billion travellers worldwide. This figure represents an 8.4% increase from 2023 and a 2.7% surge above 2019 levels, indicating a full recovery and subsequent expansion of the global aviation sector. The top 20 busiest airports collectively processed over 1.5 billion passengers, accounting for a significant 16% of the total global traffic, highlighting the critical role of these major hubs in facilitating international and domestic mobility.
While Atlanta Airport in the United States maintained its position as the world’s busiest, processing over 108 million passengers, and Dubai International Airport secured the second spot with over 92 million travellers, Delhi’s performance is particularly noteworthy within this competitive landscape. The shift in rankings also saw Los Angeles International Airport, previously the eighth busiest in 2023, move to the eleventh position, further emphasising Delhi’s growing influence on the global aviation map. This reordering signifies dynamic shifts in passenger flows and market demand across different regions
The strategic importance of Delhi Airport is further amplified by its extensive connectivity, offering seamless access to 153 destinations, comprising 81 domestic and 72 international routes. This vast network is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the airport operator and major airlines, who are continuously expanding their services to accommodate the burgeoning number of passengers. Such robust connectivity is vital for fostering equitable access to travel, trade, and cultural exchange, contributing to a more interconnected and understanding global society.
The operator of Delhi International Airport has consistently highlighted that the airport’s success is deeply rooted in its superior infrastructure, passenger-centric facilities, and streamlined transfer processes. Under its Phase 3A expansion project, the international-to-international transfer area has been significantly expanded, effectively doubling its capacity and enhancing passenger convenience. These infrastructural upgrades are essential for managing increasing traffic volumes efficiently, minimising delays, and providing a comfortable travel experience.
Beyond physical infrastructure, the airport has introduced several technological advancements aimed at streamlining the travel experience. The implementation of new biometric registration kiosks for e-visa holders is a prime example of how digital solutions are being leveraged to expedite processes and improve operational efficiency. These innovations not only reduce waiting times but also contribute to a more secure and reliable aviation ecosystem, aligning with the broader vision of creating smart, technologically advanced urban gateways.
Delhi Airport’s continued ascent in global rankings is a testament to India’s burgeoning aviation market and its strategic investments in world-class infrastructure. This growth is not merely about passenger numbers; it signifies enhanced economic activity, increased tourism, and greater global integration for the region. As the airport continues to expand and innovate, it reinforces its role as a critical component in the urban fabric, driving progress towards a more connected, sustainable, and prosperous future for New Delhi and beyond.
