BLR Airport records strong growth in FY 2025–26, driven by surge in international traffic and cargo momentum

Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR Airport) recorded a year of strong and sustained growth in FY 2025–26, handling 44.47 million passengers and 532,000 metric tonnes of cargo, reflecting continued momentum across both segments. Growth was driven by a surge in international passenger numbers, steady domestic demand, and strengthening cargo operations, reinforcing BLR Airport’s position as a key global gateway for South India.

International traffic led the growth, rising 23.9% to 7.23 million passengers, while domestic traffic grew 3.3% to 37.24 million passengers, taking overall passenger traffic up 6.2% year-on-year. This sustained growth despite geopolitical headwinds, reflects Bengaluru’s increasing global relevance as a business and innovation hub.
BLR Airport also witnessed strong growth in transfer traffic, up approximately 22% year-on-year and currently accounting for around 15.7% of total passenger traffic. While domestic transfers remain the most established segment, growing at approximately 3.2%, international transfers are expanding at over 50% reflecting significant long-term potential.

The continued growth in transfer traffic underscores the strength of the airport’s network and the significant opportunity ahead. Through its ‘Connections by BLR’ service, the airport is embedding a more seamless and reliable transfer experience while enhancing the overall operating framework for its airline partners. 

Connectivity Expansion and Operational Scale
BLR Airport continued to strengthen its global connectivity with the addition of new international destinations such as Hanoi and Riyadh, alongside increased frequencies across key routes like London Heathrow, Bangkok, Bahrain, Jeddah, Phuket, Kuwait, Kathmandu, Munich, and Mauritius. Key international destinations included Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, London Heathrow, and Kuala Lumpur, while Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Pune remained the top domestic sectors. The domestic network also saw additions Navi Mumbai, Jaisalmer, Bidar, Silchar, and Dimapur.

Operational performance scaled in line with traffic growth, with 280,800 air traffic movements recorded during the year, a 4.5% year-on-year increase. Average daily movements stood at 769, with a peak of 837 movements in a single day. Passenger traffic also reached a record high, with 139,111 passengers handled in a single day.

Cargo Momentum Continues
BLR Airport’s cargo business maintained steady growth, handling 532,000 metric tonnes, up 6% year-on-year. This was supported by a strong network of 15 cargo airlines operating across 38 destinations, connecting Bengaluru to key global hubs including Chicago, Singapore, London Heathrow, Frankfurt, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong. Demand was further driven by a mix of Agri- Perishables, Pharma, Auto parts, Spare Parts, Electric & Electronics, and e-commerce.

Perishables continued to anchor this growth, with BLR Airport retaining its position as India’s leading gateway for perishable exports for the fifth consecutive year. The airport handled ~60 million rose stems during the year, with volumes up 38% and tonnage rising 64%. Mango exports grew 12% to a five-year high, while coriander volumes increased 13% year-on-year. The commissioning of the AISATS BLR Logistics Park further strengthened cargo capacity and processing capabilities.

Sustained growth and expanding connectivity position BLR Airport as a key transfer hub in India. As demand continues to evolve, the airport will focus on deepening global linkages, expanding capacity, and building a future-ready ecosystem.