Delhi Declines While Hyderabad Airports See Passenger Growth September 2025
GMR Airports Limited reported a mixed passenger traffic performance for September 2025, highlighting contrasting trends across its portfolio. Delhi Airport, India’s busiest aviation hub, witnessed a 6.3 percent decline in passenger numbers, handling 5.84 million travellers. In contrast, Hyderabad Airport saw a 4.3 percent increase with 2.39 million passengers, while Mopa (Goa) Airport recorded robust growth of 17.3 percent, accommodating 392,344 passengers.
Officials explained that Delhi Airport’s decline partially reflects seasonal fluctuations and operational adjustments, while Hyderabad and Mopa benefitted from regional travel demand and domestic connectivity expansions. For the first half of fiscal year 2026, Delhi Airport’s traffic fell by 4.3 percent, Hyderabad rose 11.3 percent, and Mopa grew 8.1 percent, indicating differing recovery trajectories in India’s aviation network.Cargo operations remained resilient at Delhi Airport, with the hub retaining its position as the country’s largest cargo handler, posting a 2.8 percent increase in H1 FY2026. Experts noted that while passenger volumes are critical indicators, cargo throughput demonstrates operational robustness and underlines strategic diversification in airport revenues.
The performance contrast also coincides with GMR Airports’ upcoming operational expansion. Terminal 2 at Delhi Airport is scheduled to commence operations on 26 October 2025, aimed at increasing passenger handling capacity and reducing congestion during peak travel periods. Officials anticipate that the new terminal will significantly improve operational efficiency and accommodate the projected post-festive surge.International operations at Medan and Cebu reported declines, suggesting global market pressures and slower demand recovery, even as domestic markets show resilience. Analysts indicated that the variations reflect broader trends in international travel, affected by economic conditions and travel sentiment.
Experts from the airport authority highlighted strategic initiatives targeting sustainability, including energy-efficient terminal operations, optimised flight scheduling to reduce carbon footprint, and eco-friendly cargo handling processes. Such measures align with long-term objectives to build environmentally responsible and resilient airports, ensuring gender-neutral, safe, and equitable passenger experiences.Investors are expected to monitor GMR Airports’ stock performance closely, as the company navigates the challenges of uneven traffic growth, while simultaneously preparing for terminal expansion and regional connectivity improvements. Operational efficiency, passenger satisfaction, and sustainable growth remain focal points for management and stakeholders.As India’s aviation sector adapts to fluctuating demand patterns, GMR Airports’ mixed traffic report underscores the importance of strategic planning, capacity augmentation, and sustainable practices in shaping future urban mobility and airport infrastructure development.
