Kerala's Air Travel Soars with 11 Million Passengers, Ranking Eighth Nationally

Kochi, Kerala – Kerala's aviation sector continues to demonstrate significant growth, with Cochin International Airport (COK) handling over 11.14 million passengers in the fiscal year 2024-25. This robust performance positions the state as a major hub for air travel in India, particularly for international traffic, and underscores calls for enhanced intra-state and inter-state mobility.

The figure of approximately 9 lakh international passengers per month, as highlighted by "Urban Raj" on social media, closely aligns with Cochin International Airport's total passenger numbers. In the fiscal year 2024-25, Cochin International Airport recorded 11,140,778 passengers, placing it as the eighth busiest airport in India overall. For international traffic specifically, Cochin International Airport is ranked as the fifth busiest in India, serving as a crucial gateway, especially for travelers to and from the Middle East.

The significant volume of air travelers, both domestic and international, passing through Kerala's airports, including Thiruvananthapuram (TRV) and Calicut (CCJ), emphasizes the need for improved ground infrastructure. "High time to improve intra/inter state mobility," stated Urban Raj, reflecting a sentiment that better connectivity within and between states is essential to support this burgeoning air travel demand. This includes the development of roads, railways, and other public transport systems to facilitate seamless travel for passengers once they arrive in Kerala.

Kerala's unique demographic, with a large diaspora contributing to high international passenger numbers, drives a substantial portion of this air traffic. The state's strategic location and its three major international airports play a vital role in connecting India with global destinations. Continued investment in both air and ground infrastructure is seen as critical to sustaining this growth and improving the overall travel experience for millions.