Goa’s Dabolim International Airport has clinched the coveted top spot in the Airports Authority of India’s (AAI) internal rankings, based on the prestigious ACI-ASQ Survey.
The recognition positions Dabolim ahead of other major airports in India, reinforcing its reputation for exceptional service quality and passenger satisfaction. Announced during AAI’s 30th Annual Day celebrations, the results highlight Dabolim Airport’s relentless focus on improving the travel experience. The airport emerged as the undisputed leader in the 2024 rankings, followed closely by Chennai International Airport and Tiruchirappalli International Airport, which secured the second and third spots, respectively. This triumph speaks volumes about Dabolim’s commitment to world-class services, making it a model for other airports in India and beyond. While the figures from the survey underscore the excellence in operational standards, the real takeaway is the human touch that defines Dabolim’s approach to passenger services. The ACI-ASQ Survey, conducted by Airports Council International (ACI), is a widely respected global benchmarking system that evaluates airports based on passenger feedback. The rankings take into account factors such as cleanliness, ease of navigation, customer service, and overall passenger experience. For Dabolim, these parameters represent more than just operational efficiency; they are part of a broader strategy to make the airport a benchmark for eco-friendly and sustainable travel practices. AAI Chairman Vipin Kumar IAS, who presented the awards to the top airports, lauded their commitment to excellence.
The AAI’s statement on X (formerly Twitter) elaborated, “These accolades reflect our continuous efforts to enhance airport services, ensuring world-class travel experiences across India.” Dabolim’s ascension to the top is particularly noteworthy given the rapid growth of air travel in India. As the country’s aviation sector faces increasing pressure to improve infrastructure and sustainability, Dabolim’s achievement demonstrates how a forward-thinking approach can yield substantial rewards. The airport has made significant strides in reducing its environmental impact, implementing measures such as energy-efficient systems, water conservation practices, and waste reduction initiatives. These efforts align with India’s broader vision of achieving zero net carbon emissions and promoting sustainable urban infrastructure. Not just about eco-friendliness, Dabolim’s success also underscores the importance of gender-neutral, equitable approaches to public services. The airport’s initiatives in ensuring accessibility for all, regardless of gender or ability, are testament to its dedication to creating inclusive spaces that cater to every passenger’s needs. These measures contribute to a growing sense of fairness and equality that should be the cornerstone of future urban developments.
While the airport’s remarkable achievements in passenger service quality are being celebrated, Dabolim’s ranking is also seen as a call to action for other airports across India. With air travel expected to grow exponentially in the coming years, airports nationwide must not only focus on infrastructure but also invest in sustainable practices and inclusivity. This milestone for Dabolim International Airport is not just about earning accolades it represents a broader commitment to shaping the future of Indian aviation in line with global standards of environmental responsibility and social equity. The recognition serves as a benchmark for how airports across the nation can drive excellence, sustainability, and inclusivity in the post-pandemic era.
As India continues to emerge as a key player in the global travel market, Dabolim stands out as a symbol of what is possible when airports innovate with passengers’ best interests at heart.
