Passenger count registers annual growth of 36.10%: MoCA

New Delhi: The civil aviation sector has experienced remarkable growth, with domestic airlines witnessing a substantial increase in the number of passengers carried, said the Ministry in a statement on Friday. Based on the latest traffic data provided by various domestic airlines, the passenger count has reached a momentous milestone of 636.07 lakhs (63.6 million) during the period of January to May 2023, it added. This reflects a significant annual growth rate of 36.10 percent compared to the corresponding period in the preceding year of January to May 2022, during which the passenger count stood at 467.37 lakhs (46.7 million), it added.

Passenger count to 132.41 lakhs in May

In May 2022, the passenger count reached 114.67 lakhs (11.5 million), which escalated to 132.41 lakhs (13.2 million) in May 2023, registering an impressive month-on-month growth of 15.24 percent, noted the statement. This consistent upward trend highlights the collective efforts of airlines, airports, and the Ministry of Civil Aviation in fostering a safe, efficient, and customer-centric aviation ecosystem, it added. The overall passenger number in May increased by 3.26 lakhs (2.52 percent) as compared to April 2023, indicating sustained growth in air travel demand, it added.

Higher load factor of 636.07 lakh passengers from Jan to May signifies increasing demand for air transportation

The significant surge in passenger volume is a testament to the strength and resilience of India's aviation sector, demonstrating continuous endeavors to improve connectivity and provide convenient travel options to the nation's citizens, said the statement. The higher load factor of 636.07 lakh passengers from January to May signifies an increasing demand for air transportation, underscoring the positive trajectory of the aviation industry, it added.

According to Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Union Minister of Civil Aviation and Steel, “The collaborative efforts of all stakeholders have played a crucial role in propelling the growth of the aviation sector and establishing India as a prominent global aviation hub. The consistent expansion of the domestic airline industry and the birth of regional airlines are strengthening our economy, connecting people throughout the nation, and ensuring last-mile connectivity through the UDAN Scheme. The Ministry remains committed to fostering a favourable environment for the aviation industry to flourish and promote sustainable growth while ensuring the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and passenger satisfaction.”

This remarkable accomplishment is the result of meticulous planning, operational effectiveness, and proactive actions undertaken by the industry, said the statement. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, airlines have exhibited resilience by delivering smooth and hassle-free travel experiences for passengers, accompanied by enhanced air services, it added.

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