The Airports Council International , representing more than 2,000 airports in 170 countries, has unveiled its list of the world's 10 busiest airports for 2024 — and an Indian airport has made the cut.
As per the report, Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport has been announced as the world’s 9th busiest airport. This recognition not only marks India's rapidly expanding tourism industry but also indicates Delhi as a global hub for air transport, connecting leading continents and cities on the planet.
According to Airports Council International (ACI) for 2024, based on total passenger volume including both domestic and international flights, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (USA) retained the top position. Dubai International Airport followed close behind. Delhi’s IGIA claimed the 9th spot, surpassing major international airports in Europe and Asia.
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In 2024, the IGI airport handled 7.7 crore passengers. Over the years, it has seen dramatic recovery and growth, especially after the post-pandemic air travel, driven largely by India’s booming domestic aviation market, simultaneously expanding travel opportunities for the middle-class population by increasing affordable flights.
Assisting this success are IGIA's constant efforts towards upgrading and expanding. The airport recently saw extensive overhauls, such as Terminal 1's expansion, further taxiway development, and the introduction of AI-based passenger facilities and digital boarding systems. These upgrades have increased the operational efficiency and facilitated smoother handling of growing passenger numbers.
Globally, Delhi has also consolidated its role with increased non-stop service to major cities in North America, Europe, and the Middle East. Consequently, it is now a popular transit and point of arrival for passengers from various continents, increasing its strategic value.
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Government authorities and airline industry experts praised the ranking as a reflection of India's infrastructural development as well as reform in the country's aviation industry. The operating company of the airport, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), has also pledged to go further, among other things, setting sustainability targets of being net-zero carbon by the year 2030.
Being listed among the top 10 busiest airports not only brings international acclaim but also boosts tourism, foreign investment, and airline partnerships. As India emerges as an economic and aviation hub, Delhi Airport leads the way, reflecting the nation's evolving global status and its readiness to keep up with world-class aviation standards.
The increasing demand for air transport across India also indicates the need to develop and upgrade further infrastructure. With further efforts and investments going into technology and infrastructure, Delhi Airport will be at the forefront in no time. Strengthening its global reach cements India's position as a power in future global aviation.
As per the report, Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport has been announced as the world’s 9th busiest airport. This recognition not only marks India's rapidly expanding tourism industry but also indicates Delhi as a global hub for air transport, connecting leading continents and cities on the planet.
According to Airports Council International (ACI) for 2024, based on total passenger volume including both domestic and international flights, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (USA) retained the top position. Dubai International Airport followed close behind. Delhi’s IGIA claimed the 9th spot, surpassing major international airports in Europe and Asia.
Read more: Cash on wheels: Indian Railways tests India’s first train ATM
In 2024, the IGI airport handled 7.7 crore passengers. Over the years, it has seen dramatic recovery and growth, especially after the post-pandemic air travel, driven largely by India’s booming domestic aviation market, simultaneously expanding travel opportunities for the middle-class population by increasing affordable flights.
Assisting this success are IGIA's constant efforts towards upgrading and expanding. The airport recently saw extensive overhauls, such as Terminal 1's expansion, further taxiway development, and the introduction of AI-based passenger facilities and digital boarding systems. These upgrades have increased the operational efficiency and facilitated smoother handling of growing passenger numbers.
Globally, Delhi has also consolidated its role with increased non-stop service to major cities in North America, Europe, and the Middle East. Consequently, it is now a popular transit and point of arrival for passengers from various continents, increasing its strategic value.
Read more: Planning a US trip? Travel could get pricier as US hits China with 245% tariffs
Government authorities and airline industry experts praised the ranking as a reflection of India's infrastructural development as well as reform in the country's aviation industry. The operating company of the airport, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), has also pledged to go further, among other things, setting sustainability targets of being net-zero carbon by the year 2030.
Being listed among the top 10 busiest airports not only brings international acclaim but also boosts tourism, foreign investment, and airline partnerships. As India emerges as an economic and aviation hub, Delhi Airport leads the way, reflecting the nation's evolving global status and its readiness to keep up with world-class aviation standards.
The increasing demand for air transport across India also indicates the need to develop and upgrade further infrastructure. With further efforts and investments going into technology and infrastructure, Delhi Airport will be at the forefront in no time. Strengthening its global reach cements India's position as a power in future global aviation.
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