In a remarkable feat for Indian aviation, December witnessed a historic surge in domestic air travel, culminating in a record-breaking 13.8 million passengers taking flight. This marked an impressive jump of 8.4% over December 2022 and a notable 6.1% increase compared to December 2019, showcasing a robust recovery from the pandemic’s impact.
The year-end statistics revealed that December 2023 now holds the title for the highest domestic traffic in a single month, surpassing the previous record set in May, when 13.21 million domestic passengers were recorded. The stellar performance in December served as the crowning achievement for the entire year, which consistently saw the highest domestic traffic, surpassing 2019 figures and completing the post-pandemic recovery.
Traditionally, the year-end holidays in December have driven higher traffic compared to the longer summer holidays. This phenomenon is attributed to holiday traffic being compressed into a shorter window compared to the more extended summer holiday period.
Despite a minor setback in November, when the upward trajectory in traffic paused during Diwali, the momentum regained in December. This resurgence is attributed to a changing economic climate and strategic promotional fares from airlines. The month recorded an average of 4.45 lakh passengers per day, showing a significant increase of 22,000 passengers per day compared to the previous month.
The surge in traffic was facilitated by additional capacity, with IndiGo wet-leasing 11 aircraft that are now in operation. Additionally, the Tata group expanded capacity across its three airlines.
Notably, the positive figures were achieved despite challenging weather conditions leading to operational disruptions and cancellations. Diversions in Goa due to a military aircraft incident and subsequent weather-related diversions and cancellations in Delhi impacted flight operations for a few days.
Indian domestic air traffic rebounded strongly in 2023, exceeding pre-COVID levels. The year’s overall traffic is 6% higher than in 2019 and 23% more than in 2022. Each month, except for November, recorded more passengers than the corresponding month in 2019, marking a robust recovery.
Looking ahead to 2024, with the country poised for elections and the economy projected to grow between 6% to 7.5%, a 15% growth in domestic traffic is anticipated. This could potentially elevate domestic traffic to 17.5 million, subject to support from airlines in terms of fleet induction. The Tata group, with its significant capacity addition, is expected to play a pivotal role in this growth.
As the aviation industry revels in the success of December and the year gone by, attention turns to the challenges and opportunities that 2024 holds. The industry is poised for growth, yet uncertainties linger, especially regarding the impact of the latest COVID variant and potential changes in travel dynamics.
While reflecting on the triumphs of the past, airlines now face the task of navigating the future, with an optimistic outlook and hopes for a profitable quarter that could set the stage for continued success.
